SlutWalk - Women asking for respect

A SlutWalk participant stands in the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland.

A SlutWalk participant stands in the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Published Jul 23, 2011

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ARE girls asking for “it” if they are wearing sexy clothing?

The question is being hotly debated on FaceBook this week as the SlutWalk campaign reached African shores. It is an anti-rape campaign and the shock title has caught on around the world, with marches already being held across the US, UK and Australia.

And SlutWalk marches are now being organised to be held simultaneously on August 20 in Joburg, Durban and Cape Town.

It all started at the beginning of the year in Toronto, Canada when police officer, Constable Michael Sanguinetti, speaking at a crime-prevention meeting at York University safety forum, said “women should avoid dressing like sluts in order not to be victimised”.

His comment went viral, drawing outrage from women across the world, especially from young women on university and college campuses.

And the result was the first SlutWalk held in Queen’s Park in Toronto on April 11.

In Durban yesterday, rape survivor and well-known public speaker on the subject of rape, Jes Foord, confirmed her foundation would be at the forefront of the SlutWalk to be held in Durban.

“I was wearing shorts and a bikini during a day out by the dam when I was attacked.

“We live in a hot climate and women should be allowed to feel comfortable when they are wearing shorts and costumes. I also believe girls should be allowed to wear clothing that makes them feel sexy, without having to fear being assaulted or raped,” said Foord.

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