California is Taking a Big Step Toward Ending Rape Culture

California is taking a big leap toward ending rape culture for future generations. It’s set to become the first state to add consent and sexual-violence prevention in sex-ed classes.

With the Stanford case, the Steubenville gang rape and so many others, it is clear that something needs to be done to prevent sexual violence. California is betting on a proactive approach to change things. The new law will require teachers to specifically explain why it is so crucial to have a definite “yes” before engaging in sex. This comes a year after the state passed an affirmative consent policy for colleges.

Other states—including Maryland, Michigan, and Utah—are considering similar legislation changes for colleges. The goal for those measures is to improve the way rape and sexual assault cases are handled by the universities and to reduce the number of people who feel pressured into unwanted sex.

The new sex-ed law will take effect next year.

(Written and Published for Feather Magazine. )