The third annual “SlutWalk” went forth in Jerusalem and in Toronto this weekend with hundreds of attendees dressed in various shades of shocking attire striding through the city streets, protesting a culture they see as fostering sexual assaults against women.
The Jerusalem event saw women dressed as what United Press International described as “sluts” walking through the Israeli town, nearly topless and holding signs and chanting slogans aimed at raising awareness about sexual assault. UPI said the event was also aimed at empowering women and making clear that choice of apparel is not an excuse for assault.
The event actually began in 2011 in Canada, after a police officer remarked during a York University presentation that if women wanted to avoid becoming victims of sexual assault, they shouldn’t dress like sluts, UPI reported.
The ensuing protests in Toronto soon went international, The Hamilton Spectator reported.
Participants at this year’s event in Canada attempted to tone down the title of the movement somewhat, in order to become more inclusive and less offensive.
The original name suited for “in context” references, said one Canadian local organizer, Lauren Charman, in The Hamilton Spectator. “But for some, it could be alienating. … We want to focus on the main message, which is supporting survivors of sexualized violence.”
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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