Didech Backs Effort to Ensure Sex Education Curriculum Include Teaching Consent

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Committed to reducing instances of harassment and assault, state Rep. Daniel Didech, D-Buffalo Grove, is supporting legislation that would require age-appropriate discussions about consent to be had with students.

“In order to properly address instances of harassment and assault, we need to have serious discussions amongst ourselves as adults and with our young people about what is appropriate behavior,” Didech said. “This legislation is a necessary step in order to fully educate our young people during their formative years, about what is okay and what is not when it comes to relationships and sex.” 

Didech is backing House Bill 3550, which would ensure that age-appropriate discussions about the meaning of consent are included as part of the sex education material taught in grades 6 through 12. As of May 2018, only 10 states and the District of Columbia require sex education to include discussions about consent and sexual assault in the curriculum. Under the Didech-backed measure, discussions would recognize some of the following: consent must be freely given, consent to one sexual activity does not presume consent to another type of activity, how someone is dressed does not constitute consent, and an individual can withdraw consent at any time.

 “If clear discussions are had early on, our young people will be more equipped to communicate better and most importantly respect each other,” Didech said. “I look forward to continuing to work and support legislation that effectively addresses and puts an end to harassment and assault.” 

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