Lifestyle
SlutWalk Singapore
SimplySxy is delighted to have the opportunity to collaborate with SlutWalk Singapore (SWSG). This collaboration is in-line with SimplySxy’s mission to create awareness and provide accurate sexuality education for all our readers. SWSG has been active since 2011, conducting workshops, talks and events on a regular basis. For starters, here’s a little you should know about SlutWalk:
History of SlutWalk
SlutWalk started in Toronto in Feb of 2011 as a response to Constable Michael Sanguinetti’s statement at a York University safety forum that “women should avoid dressing like sluts in order to not be victimized.” This sparked a backlash which has resulted in SlutWalk groups forming all over the world — from Seoul to New York City to Helsinki to Delhi to Johannesburg — to protest a culture that blames victims for rape, and to challenge the attitudes that come with that, which usually leave sexual crimes under-reported as a result. We recognize that we need to end not only the acts of sexual violence, but the excuses that allow that violence to continue.
A Manifesto
We are tired of being oppressed by slut-shaming; of being judged by our sexuality and feeling unsafe as a result. We recognize that we need to end not only the acts of sexual violence, but the excuses that allow that violence to continue. This is not just a women’s issue or a men’s issue; it is everyone’s issue — regardless of gender identification, class, religion, race, or any other identity markers.
We seek to:
- Challenge the sentiment that it is acceptable to live in a victim-blaming society as we do, where we are taught “don’t get raped,” instead of “don’t rape.”
- Emphasize that no means no, yes means yes, and that only our words can consent for us — not our bodies or our clothes, and regardless if we participate in sex for pleasure or for work.
- Fight the stereotypes and myths of sexual assault (e.g. men jumping out of bushes) and supporting a better understanding of why sexual violence happens (not limited to physical violence), supporting victims and survivors.
- Create an understanding that sexual assault affects all genders, while acknowledging the fact that it disproportionately affects women.
- Create a network of safe spaces for survivors of sexual assault to seek solace and empowerment.
Join us in our mission to spread the word that those who experience sexual assault are not the ones at fault, without exception. Sexual assault is never justifiable, regardless of age, gender, class, profession, or race.
SlutWalk SG is currently carrying out a survey on Rape Culture and your participation is greatly appreciated. It will only take a minute of your time and the link to the survey can be found here. Watch this space as we bring you updates on SWSG 2014. For more information, please visit http://slutwalksg.com/