Have you heard of Slutwalks? Do you know the goal? What do you think of the name? Will you participate and take a stand?
I've put a link on the side of the blog for the larger website for Slutwalks, but let me tell you a bit about them.
On January 24, 2011 a Canadian representative through the Toronto Police stated: "women should avoid dressing like sluts in order not to be victimized." The problems with this statement, in my opinion, are multiple. Not only does this statement scream "victim blaming!" (you know, when victims of crimes are held completely or partially responsible for the crimes against them--"she drank too much", "she was asking for it by the way she dressed", "she shouldn't have been walking alone at night"), but the use of the word 'slut' by an individual in a position of power representing an organization expected to serve and protect is highly problematic.
As a result of this statement and the implications it holds, individuals have joined together with the mission of spreading the word that those who experience sexual assault are not the ones at fault, ever.
Now, what is with the name? It certainly could turn some people off. But, when you find out the catalyst for these events, it seems to make more sense. Don't be nervous. Don't think you're not invited. These events, these Slutwalks, are for everyone. They are all-inclusive. Men, women, old, young--come one, come all. Dress as you'd like. Some participants purposely dress "provocatively," but this is not a mandate.
So, what do you think? Slutwalks have began to span the globe. We all can take a stand! Tomorrow (6/2/11) is Denver, CO Slutwalk. Check it out! You can find more info about the Denver walk on their facebook page here.
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