Controversial Facebook post spurs conversation about children and consent

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There's a meme that has been shared by thousands on Facebook this fall about whether it's okay for you to make your child hug or kiss a family member.

The Facebook post shows a young girl, apparently five years old, with the statement from her perspective: "My body is my body. Don't force me to kiss or hug." The statement also says that she's learning about consent and support from others will help keep her safe for the rest of her life.

The controversial meme was posted on the Facebook page 'A Mighty Girl' in October and has been shared more than 160,000 times.

The meme comes along with text from a CNN story about girl who went on a hugging and kissing strike. The young girl will hug and kiss her parents but many other people who know her - do not.

The post was inspired by the story and argues that forcing kids to show unwanted affection is teaching them that their bodies don't belong to them, which could leave them vulnerable to abuse.

This has started an important dialog about children and consent. Should your child have to hug grandma, an aunt or uncle, or even a cousin? Or is a handshake or high five okay?

See the original post embedded below and then head to our Facebook page and weigh in on what you think.

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The image was created by the Facebook page Safe Kids Thriving Families. CLICK HERE for more.