Was She Asking For It?

It's certainly not a cheery thought, but women (and men) of all shapes, sizes, ethnic groups and styles of dress fall victim to sexual assault. The aggressive crimes have very little to do with attraction and everything to do with power, which is why it's absurd to insinuate that a victim's clothing, sexual history or personality should be considered evidence that the she was "asking for it"; still, many do. While Slutwalk St. Louis defines itself as a march against rape, it's also an in-your-face dialogue-starter that aims to own the label "slut," taking away its pejorative connotation and its capacity to invalidate abuse. On Saturday, the Grove (Manchester Road between Kingshighway and Vandeventer Avenue) will spill over with self-proclaimed sluts strutting with pithy signs -- some in skimpy outfits, some in frumpy jeans. After the march join like-minded ladies (and their male allies) for workshops and panels (covering topics such as "Rationale of Rapists" and "Caring for a Rape Survivor") and a pole-dancing burlesque show with Michelle Mynx at 9 p.m.
Sat., July 14, 2012