Consent & Respect: Your Rights - Discussion Script

Introduction & Warm-Up: What Does 'Respect' Mean? (5 minutes)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone. Welcome! Today, we're going to talk about a really important topic: respect and personal boundaries. It's something that affects all of us, every single day."

"To start, I want us to think about this question: What does respect look like and feel like in our daily interactions? Think about how you show respect to others, and how you feel when others show respect to you. This could be at school, at home, or with your friends."

(Allow students a moment to think, then invite them to share. Encourage a few different students to speak.)

"Those are some great points. Respect is fundamental, isn't it? It's about valuing others, listening, and acknowledging their feelings and boundaries. Sometimes, when respect is missing, it can lead to situations that are uncomfortable or even harmful. Today, we're going to focus on a specific area where respect is absolutely critical: understanding and preventing sexual harassment."

Understanding Sexual Harassment (10 minutes)

"Now, let's get into the specifics. I'm going to hand out this Defining Sexual Harassment Handout to everyone. Take a moment to look it over."

(Distribute the handout.)

"As you can see on the handout, sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. This is a really important definition, so let's break it down."

"The key word here is unwelcome. If someone doesn't want it to happen, or if it makes them uncomfortable or offended, then it's unwelcome. It's also important to remember that if you haven't clearly and enthusiastically agreed to something, then there isn't consent. And consent can always be withdrawn at any time."

"Sexual harassment isn't always physical. It can take many forms: verbal, like unwanted comments, jokes, or rumors; non-verbal, like unwanted gestures, staring, or inappropriate images; and of course, physical, like unwanted touching or blocking someone's movement."

"Another critical point is that when we're talking about harassment, the impact on the person is more important than the intent of the person doing the harassing. Someone might not intend to cause harm, but if their actions make another person feel uncomfortable or unsafe, then it can still be harassment."

"Does anyone have any questions about this definition or the different forms sexual harassment can take?"

(Address any questions.)

Scenario Analysis & Discussion (10 minutes)

"Alright, let's put this knowledge into practice. I'm going to divide you into pairs or small groups, and each group will receive a few Scenario Cards."

(Divide students and distribute cards.)

"Your task is to read your scenario and discuss the following questions within your group:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
2. What would you do in this situation if you were the person experiencing it?
3. What would you do if you witnessed it?"

"You'll have about 7-8 minutes for your discussions. Make sure everyone in your group gets a chance to share their thoughts. After that, we'll reconvene as a whole group and discuss some of the scenarios."

(Circulate among the groups, listening to discussions and offering guidance if needed. After 7-8 minutes, bring the class back together.)

"Okay, let's come back together. Who would like to share one of their scenarios and what your group discussed?"

(Facilitate a discussion on 2-3 scenarios, encouraging different groups to share. Emphasize the reasoning behind their answers and the various ways one can respond.)

"It's clear that these situations can be tricky, and there's no single 'right' way to feel or react. But what's important is knowing that you have options and you're not alone."

Response Strategies & Cool-Down (5 minutes)

"To wrap up, let's talk about strategies for responding. I'm handing out the Response Strategy Worksheet now. Take a look at it."

(Distribute the worksheet.)

"The worksheet lists some key strategies. If you or someone you know experiences sexual harassment, you can:

• Say NO clearly and firmly. Sometimes a direct statement is enough to stop the behavior.
• Document what happened. Write down who, what, when, and where. This can be helpful if you decide to report it.
• Tell a trusted adult. This could be a parent, a teacher, a counselor, or another adult you feel safe with.
• Utilize school resources, like the guidance office or reporting forms.
• And importantly, if you witness harassment, support others who speak up or seek help for them."

"For your cool-down, on this worksheet, I'd like each of you to reflect individually on one key takeaway from today's lesson. What's one thing you learned or one strategy you feel is most important for you to remember regarding how you can contribute to a respectful and safe environment?"

(Allow students a few minutes to write. Collect the worksheets as an exit ticket.)

"Thank you all for your thoughtful participation today. Remember, everyone deserves to feel safe and respected, and your understanding and actions are crucial in building that kind of community. If you ever need to talk more about this, please know that my door is always open, as are the doors of other trusted adults in the school."

Defining Sexual Harassment: Your Guide

Sexual harassment is a serious issue that affects many people. Understanding what it is and how to recognize it is the first step in creating a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

What is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

It is important to remember that:

• It is about IMPACT, not just intent. Even if someone doesn't mean to cause harm, if their behavior makes another person uncomfortable, offended, or intimidated, it can still be considered sexual harassment.
• It must be unwelcome. This is the crucial element. If you don't want it, or it makes you uncomfortable, it is unwelcome. Consent is key, and consent can be withdrawn at any time.

Forms of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can take many forms. It doesn't always involve physical contact.

1. Verbal Harassment

This includes spoken or written words that are sexual in nature and unwelcome.

Examples:

• Unwanted sexual comments, jokes, or teasing.
• Spreading sexual rumors or gossip about someone.
• Making offensive comments about someone's body or appearance.
• Repeatedly asking someone for dates or sexual favors after they have said no.
• Sending unwanted sexual texts, emails, or messages.

2. Non-Verbal Harassment

This involves actions or gestures that are sexual in nature and unwelcome.

Examples:

• Staring in a way that makes someone feel uncomfortable or intimidated.
• Making suggestive or lewd gestures.
• Displaying sexually suggestive pictures, posters, or objects.
• Following someone in a way that makes them feel threatened or uncomfortable.

3. Physical Harassment

This involves any unwelcome physical contact of a sexual nature.

Examples:

• Unwanted touching, grabbing, or pinching.
• Blocking someone's path in a suggestive way.
• Sexual assault.
• Pressing against someone or invading their personal space in a sexual way.

Remember:

• Your feelings matter. If something makes you uncomfortable, it's okay to say so.
• You have the right to be safe and respected.
• It's never your fault if someone harasses you.

Understanding these definitions is the first step in creating a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.

Scenario Cards

Instructions: Read each scenario with your group. Discuss if it is sexual harassment and why. Then, discuss what you would do if you were the person experiencing it or witnessing it.

Scenario 1: The Persistent Asker

Maya tells Alex she's not interested in going to the school dance with him. Alex continues to ask her every day for a week, sometimes leaving notes in her locker that say, "Just one dance? You know you want to." Maya feels annoyed and uncomfortable walking by his locker.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Maya?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you witnessed Alex leaving notes and Maya looking uncomfortable?
   
   
   

Scenario 2: The Unwanted Touch

During a crowded passing period in the hallway, Sam often bumps into Chloe and lingers his hand on her lower back for a moment longer than necessary. Chloe doesn't like it and tries to move away, but it keeps happening.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Chloe?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you witnessed Sam repeatedly touching Chloe in this way?
   
   
   

Scenario 3: The Online Joke

A group of friends is in a private group chat. One person posts a sexually explicit meme about a teacher they all dislike. Another friend, Jordan, sees it and feels really uncomfortable, but doesn't want to be seen as "uncool" by saying something. The meme is then shared in another, larger group chat.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Jordan?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you saw this meme in the larger group chat?

Scenario 4: The "Compliment"

During gym class, after Sarah makes a great shot in basketball, a classmate shouts, "Nice shot, Sarah! You're looking good in those shorts today!" Sarah feels embarrassed and wishes they hadn't said anything about her appearance.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Sarah?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you heard this comment?
   
   
   

Scenario 5: The Locker Room Comment

In the locker room, a group of students is changing after practice. One student makes a derogatory comment about another student's body in a loud voice, causing several students to laugh awkwardly. The student who was targeted looks down and quickly finishes changing.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were the student who was targeted?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you witnessed this comment and the reaction of the targeted student?

Response Strategy Worksheet: Your Action Plan

Being prepared to respond to sexual harassment, whether you experience it or witness it, is empowering. This worksheet will help you think through different strategies.

Section 1: Understanding Your Options

Read through the common response strategies below. Think about why each one is important.

Strategies for Responding:

1. Say NO clearly and firmly: Directly communicate that the behavior is unwelcome. Sometimes a clear, calm statement is enough to stop the harassment.
2. Document what happened: If you feel safe doing so, make a note of the incident. Include: Who was involved? What exactly happened? When and where did it occur? This information can be very helpful if you decide to report it.
3. Tell a trusted adult: Share what happened with an adult you trust, such as a parent, guardian, teacher, school counselor, coach, or administrator. They can offer support and guidance on next steps.
4. Utilize school resources: Most schools have specific policies and procedures for reporting sexual harassment. This might include a guidance office, a school nurse, an assistant principal, or online reporting forms.
5. Support others who speak up: If you witness harassment, you can support the person being targeted by standing with them, helping them report it, or speaking up yourself if it's safe to do so. Being an upstander makes a huge difference.

Section 2: Personal Reflection

Choose ONE of the scenarios we discussed in class or imagine a situation where you might encounter sexual harassment. Reflect on the questions below.

Scenario/Situation You Are Reflecting On:

Reflection Questions:

1. Based on the strategies we discussed, which one do you think would be most effective in this specific situation, and why?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. What challenges might you face in using that strategy, and how could you try to overcome them?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. What is one key takeaway you will remember from today's lesson about contributing to a respectful and safe environment?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Your Voice, Your Power: A Personal Reflection Journal

This journal is a space for you to reflect on what you've learned about sexual harassment, respect, and your personal rights. Take your time to think deeply about each question.

Part 1: Defining & Understanding

1. In your own words, how would you define sexual harassment? What are the key components of this definition?
   (Refer to the Defining Sexual Harassment Handout if needed.)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. The lesson emphasized that sexual harassment is about unwelcome behavior. What does "unwelcome" truly mean to you? How do you know when something is unwelcome, either for yourself or for someone else?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 2: Reflecting on Scenarios & Actions

3. Choose one of the Scenario Cards that resonated with you the most. Describe the scenario here and explain why it stood out to you.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Thinking about that scenario, if you were the person experiencing it, what specific steps would you consider taking? If you were a witness, what actions would you consider to support the person being targeted?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 3: Your Role in a Respectful Community

5. What is one important insight or strategy you will take away from this lesson that will help you contribute to a more respectful and safe environment for everyone?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

6. Who are some trusted adults or resources you would feel comfortable reaching out to if you or someone you know needed help regarding sexual harassment?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Scenario Cards

Instructions: Read each scenario with your group. Discuss if it is sexual harassment and why. Then, discuss what you would do if you were the person experiencing it or witnessing it.

Scenario 1: The Persistent Asker

Maya tells Alex she's not interested in going to the school dance with him. Alex continues to ask her every day for a week, sometimes leaving notes in her locker that say, "Just one dance? You know you want to." Maya feels annoyed and uncomfortable walking by his locker.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Maya?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you witnessed Alex leaving notes and Maya looking uncomfortable?
   
   
   

Scenario 2: The Unwanted Touch

During a crowded passing period in the hallway, Sam often bumps into Chloe and lingers his hand on her lower back for a moment longer than necessary. Chloe doesn't like it and tries to move away, but it keeps happening.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Chloe?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you witnessed Sam repeatedly touching Chloe in this way?
   
   
   

Scenario 3: The Online Joke

A group of friends is in a private group chat. One person posts a sexually explicit meme about a teacher they all dislike. Another friend, Jordan, sees it and feels really uncomfortable, but doesn't want to be seen as

Scenario Cards

Instructions: Read each scenario with your group. Discuss if it is sexual harassment and why. Then, discuss what you would do if you were the person experiencing it or witnessing it.

Scenario 1: The Persistent Asker

Maya tells Alex she's not interested in going to the school dance with him. Alex continues to ask her every day for a week, sometimes leaving notes in her locker that say, "Just one dance? You know you want to." Maya feels annoyed and uncomfortable walking by his locker.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Maya?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you witnessed Alex leaving notes and Maya looking uncomfortable?
   
   
   

Scenario 2: The Unwanted Touch

During a crowded passing period in the hallway, Sam often

Scenario Cards

Instructions: Read each scenario with your group. Discuss if it is sexual harassment and why. Then, discuss what you would do if you were the person experiencing it or witnessing it.

Scenario 1: The Persistent Asker

Maya tells Alex she's not interested in going to the school dance with him. Alex continues to ask her every day for a week, sometimes leaving notes in her locker that say, "Just one dance? You know you want to." Maya feels annoyed and uncomfortable walking by his locker.

Discussion Questions:

1. Is this sexual harassment? Why or why not?
   
   
   
2. What would you do if you were Maya?
   
   
   
3. What would you do if you witnessed Alex leaving notes and Maya looking uncomfortable?
   
   
   

Scenario 2: The Unwanted Touch

During a crowded passing period in the hallway, Sam often