MOUNT GREENWOOD — Saint Xavier University hopes to challenge the culture of victim blaming by hosting a "Slut Walk" at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the student lounge and diner in Mount Greenwood.
It is free to attend the inaugural event at 3700 W. 103rd St., which is part of the school's programming efforts for Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This effort aims to raise public awareness about sexual violence and to educate communities on how to prevent it.
A group of Saint Xavier students called It’s On Us worked alongside associate dean Samantha Maher Sheahan to develop a series of events for the month, which also included the third annual March A Mile In Her Shoes event on March 29.
Denim Day on April 26 is also meant to call for an end to victim blaming as well as provide an opportunity to heal through art. A quilt with small denim patches decorated by students will be displayed on campus.
The Slut Walk began in Toronto in 2011 after a visiting police officer suggested, "women should avoid dressing like sluts" as a precaution against sexual assault. The officer later apologized, but his words sparked rallies across the globe.
In some instances, young women dress as "sluts" for the events, using sexy attire to thumb their noses at the notion articulated by the officer. Others have used these rallies as an opportunity to speak publicly for the first time about their identity as rape survivors.
"Rape culture is extremely detrimental and is especially damaging and scary on college campuses," said Alexa Zaharris, Saint Xavier's associate director of student activities.
At Saint Xavier, the Slut Walk will consist of several “mythbusting stations” that will be set up throughout the common area. Those interested are encouraged to visit these displays to learn more about the movement, Zaharris said.
For more information about events related to Sexual Assault Awareness Month at Saint Xavier, visit the university's website or call the student life office at 773-341-5060.
