Sex is Tricky, Consent is Not | Alexandra Ford | TEDxSurrey

NOTE FROM TED: This talk discusses sexual abuse and human trafficking. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/t...

In this powerful talk, Alexandra Ford recounts her journey from an outspoken child advocate to a victim of sexual assault and sex trafficking. Central to her talk is the transformative impact of understanding consent.

Although there is a wide societal misunderstanding of the meaning of consent, she emphasizes the vital role of enthusiastic consent in fostering healthy relationships. The talk challenges the damaging narrative that 'no' is the beginning of a negotiation and emphasizes the importance of recognizing sexual consent as a fundamental human right.

With personal anecdotes and a call for a collective shift in mindset, Alexandra urges society to teach both giving and receiving consent, to foster a generation that fully comprehends the profound significance of consent in every interaction. Alexandra began her advocacy journey at 11, but her path shifted dramatically through drug use and exploitation. After escaping from that experience, she immersed herself in social services education, earning several degrees, including a master's in psychology. A decade later, she realized her ordeal was human trafficking, reigniting her advocacy. Co-founding a US-based anti-trafficking nonprofit, she became an international speaker, sharing her story to raise awareness. Alexandra's impact led to trafficking-related questions being included in Canada's medical licensing exam starting in 2024, ensuring doctors' awareness. Her upcoming book further extends her reach, showcasing the resilience that turned personal adversity into a force for change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx