Two trainers from Genderhood, a Synai/no (“I Consent”) suitcase, and two others packed with clothes, traveled in May to Agria in Volos. Over the course of three days, we spoke with 180 students aged 6-12 about consent, bodily boundaries, and the right to our own bodies.
Just before Christmas, we received an invitation from the school psychologist. The children had recently faced one of the most devastating floods in recent years and there was a great need for different yet empowering stimuli. Unfortunately, the economic impact of the disaster prevented families from supporting such an initiative, so we started looking for alternative funding sources. The Mediterranean Women’s Fund, always by our side, immediately gave us the green light, and we set off for Volos, Magnesia.
In collaboration with the teachers of the 2nd Primary School of Agria, we worked with all grades, from first to sixth, tailoring the educational program content to each class and age group.
We discussed, played, reflected, and empowered ourselves on topics of consent, asserting and respecting our own bodily boundaries and those of others, as well as bodily autonomy.
One of the most empowering moments for us was when, at the end of the program with the fifth grade, M. came to us hesitantly during break and asked:
So, do our clothes not provoke even a little bit? That’s what I’m told, but after our discussion today, I believe it’s not right.
We sat and talked with her, and when the bell rang and she left for the next lesson, she said with a smile: “Come again next year, it’s really nice to talk about these issues. We don’t talk to anyone else like this.”
With the above small story being just one of those we see unfolding before us, we know that the impact of Synai/no is significant. Children take a step closer to listening to their needs, defending them, and respecting those of others. As one student wrote:
My personal space has a sign saying ‘DO NOT DISTURB.
With this imprint and thoughts, we continue our action to dismantle gender stereotypes, promote consent, and achieve equality for all. Looking forward to similarly beautiful collaborations with schools across the country, we want to sincerely thank the school psychologist of the 2nd Primary School of Agria, the principal, and the teachers we worked with for the smooth and mutually rewarding outcome of the educational program.
By educating children on the skill of consent, we are laying small stones for a world and communities where safety and respect will be a given!