A dinner and a movie can be followed with a kiss, but for Mike Dormitz kissing is a different case.
Mike Dormitz is an award-winning author and publisher, who has traveled internationally to college audiences spreading his message about sexual consent.
After hearing the news of his older sister being sexually assaulted in college, Dormitz wanted to make a difference by starting a program called “Can I kiss you?” which addresses sexual intimacy and dating with respect and consent.
“The goal of Can I Kiss You is to teach audiences bystander intervention, verbal skills for consent, and supporting sexually assaulted survivors,” said Dormitz. Dormitz began the night by explaining to the audience that everyone has a personal consequence in situations dealing with alcohol and sexual activity.
“If you place a person you love in the place of someone who is being taken advantage of, you have a personal consequence in that situation,” said Dormitz.
Dormitz had then suggested to students to call their loved ones and tell them that they’ll be there for them.
Dormitz finished the program by asking the audience why most people don’t ask their date to kiss them?
The majority of the audience had replied with the answer of rejection.
However, Dormitz combated that by stating that if you’re rejected, then that person might not be ready and it’s best not to waste your time. Dormitz also suggested audiences say, “That’s great because the last thing I want to do is make you feel uncomfortable.”
Throughout the program, Dormitz received much crowd participation with his enthusiastic humorous jokes, free t-shirts and laid-back situations with the audience.
“It was a really interesting program to watch and a smart way to present the idea,” Said Jessica Roos (junior-secondary education).
Dormitz has been consistently asked to come back to Penn State to present his story and message.
“We love Mike and his message and how he’s able to connect with students right away it’s great,” said Student Advocacy Specialist Susan DelPonte.
Dormitz has been to over ninety-seven cities throughout the world and has plans to make a difference to students.
“I started this program as an angry brother wanting to stop rape, but over the years it’s become such a positive impact in so many people’s lives and I’m glad to make a difference,” said Dormitz.
