Consent is often discussed only in the context of sex, but the foundation for consent begins much earlier. From respecting personal space to listening when someone says no, children practice the building blocks of consent every day. Teaching these skills early helps young people develop confidence, communicate boundaries, and build healthier relationships as they grow.

The renewed headlines surrounding the Epstein case have prompted questions about power, accountability, and systemic failure. This reflection from DARCC’s Education Department explores why this case is not an exception, but a reminder of patterns we see across communities — and why believing and supporting survivors must remain central.

After listening to students share honest insights about safety, consent, and campus culture, DARCC is taking action. This next phase focuses on strengthening peer support, building real-world bystander intervention skills, bringing prevention into under-engaged student spaces, and making survivor support more visible and accessible. Here’s how we are turning student voices into meaningful change.