The Women’s Resource Center and its affiliated student group FORCE are bringing the SlutWalk to the University of Arizona on Nov. 9. This will be the seventh SlutWalk to take place in Tucson, the first one being held in 2011.
The UA SlutWalk march will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Old Main. Participants will walk to Revolutionary Ground Books and Coffee which will host a rally, speakers and performers such as the Esperanza Dance Group.
Before the march, at 5:30 p.m., protesters will have an opportunity to design signs and t-shirts at the Women’s Resource Center on the fourth floor of the Student Union Memorial Center.
SlutWalk is a worldwide protest movement that aims to raise awareness of gender inequality and the rape culture that places the blame for sexual violence on the victim rather than the perpetrator.
“This is a good way to get the message out that people won’t accept rape culture or victim blaming,” said Al Seever, a Tucson community member who has marched in other SlutWalks.
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“People of all genders and ages who have been raped, or harmed, are not to blame for what’s happened to them.”
Protesters are encouraged to wear any outfit that makes them feel comfortable, which often includes revealing clothing, embracing the idea that people should be able to wear whatever they choose without fear of sexual violence.
Students and Tucson community members of all genders and ages, including children, are encouraged to come as the protest also acts as a venue to educate people on how to identify and combat rape culture.
According to the event’s Facebook page, organizers are expecting a large turnout this year because students will not have to attend class the next day. Currently, over 300 people have indicated they will be attending.
“The messages need to be heard still, and others need to learn,” Seever said. “I support the ending of rape culture and ending victim blaming. We all must help others learn, and make a positive change; to stand up for those who’ve been harmed.”
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