Earlier this year the White House released findings that showed that one in five women are sexually assaulted while in college, often by someone they know. Activists say the key to protecting students is making sure that everyone understand what constitutes consent.
"Consent is an enthusiastic yes. It's not 'oh, I think she said yes' or like body language or ‘we've done this before,'” says senior Ashley Van Brocklin..
Senior Briana Sorochak adds, "it's college and I think a lot of people on campus think that it's okay to drink on weekends and go to parties but what they're not okay with is guys taking advantage of them."
Under California Senate Bill 967 someone who is drunk, drugged, unconscious or asleep cannot legally grant consent to engage in sexual activity. A lot of the students we spoke with Monday said most assault cases they knew of happened when alcohol was involved.
"If they're drinking and if their girlfriend or this girl is drinking then it's okay because they're both drinking - um, I don't feel that's right, but I know a lot of people who do feel that way," says sophomore Samuel Mercier.
Junior Jasmine adds, "when someone's drunk or intoxicated they can't really give you the clear answer - or the answer that they would prefer."
Three years ago the University of Nevada, Reno began having very frank conversations with students about sexual activity and the meaning of consent...and they say awareness is growing.
"We talk about consent in the affirmative, as well. The lack of a 'no' does not mean that there is consent."
"I think our society needs to shift its changing from no means no to yes means yes."
Next month a student-led group at the university will be launching a new campaign to educate students about consent and bystander awareness.
The law affects public and private California colleges and universities that receive state financial aid.
