Slutwalk Perth 2011

3rd December 2011

History:
On January 24th, 2011, a representative of the Toronto Police gave shocking insight into a widely held view of sexual assault by stating: “women should avoid dressing like sluts in order not to be victimized”.
As a result of this, SlutWalk groups have formed all over the world to highlight police response to sexual assault; and the attitudes that continue to leave sexual crimes under-reported due to victim-blaming. As the city’s major protective service, the Toronto Police perpetuated the myth and stereotype of ‘the slut’, and in doing so have failed women everywhere.

With sexual assault already a significantly under-reported crime, survivors have now been given even less of a reason to report sexual assault for fear that they could be blamed. Being assaulted isn’t about what you wear; it’s not even about sex; but using a pejorative term to rationalize inexcusable behaviour creates an environment in which it’s okay to blame the victim.

Historically, the term ‘slut’ has carried a predominantly negative connotation. Aimed at those who are sexually promiscuous, be it for work or pleasure, it has primarily been women who have suffered under the burden of this label. And whether dished out as a serious indictment of one’s character or merely as a flippant insult, the intent behind the word is always to wound, so we’re taking it back. “Slut” is being re-appropriated.

We are tired of being oppressed by slut-shaming; of being judged by our sexuality and feeling unsafe as a result. Being in charge of our sexual lives should not mean that we are opening ourselves to an expectation of violence, regardless if we participate in sex for pleasure or work. No one should equate enjoying sex with attracting sexual assault.

We are a movement demanding that our voices be heard. We want all Police Services to take serious steps to regain our trust. We want to feel that we will be respected and protected should we ever need them, but more importantly be certain that those charged with our safety have a true understanding of what it is to be a survivor of sexual assault — slut or otherwise.

What we want is meaningful dialogue and we are doing something about it: WE ARE COMING TOGETHER. Not only as women, but as people from all gender expressions and orientations, all walks of life, levels of employment and education, all races, ages, abilities, and backgrounds, from all points of this city and elsewhere.

We are asking you to join us for SlutWalk, to make a unified statement about sexual assault and victims’ rights and to demand respect for all. Whether a fellow slut or simply an ally, you don’t have to wear your sexual proclivities on your sleeve, we just ask that you come. Any gender-identification, any age. Singles, couples, parents, sisters, brothers, children, friends. Come walk or roll or strut or stomp with us. This has become a global movement, with Satellites happening all over the world. See if there’s one in your city if you are not from Perth.

Join us in our mission to spread the word that those who experience sexual assault are not the ones at fault, without exception.

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