Slutwalk Chicago 2011
On Saturday June 4th, a few L Stop team members dusted off their booty shorts, pulled on their scandalous bras and took to the streets of Downtown Chicago. For the first time ever, these tactics were used as a way of showing solidarity for women around the world who have been pressured into silence about sexual assault. If you are a little confused by the context of this rally, it is time for you to learn about the Slut Walk.
In January, a representative of the Toronto Police stated that “women should avoid dressing like sluts in order to not be victimized”. From that one statement came deserved outrage, disgust and determination. This project stemmed from the necessity to change the way society blames the sexuality, dress or lifestyle of those who have suffered from oppressive and sometimes violent crimes. At a time that it is ever more crucial to not only eliminate such thoughtless and discriminatory notions from our lives and the lives of the children who are perpetuating these thoughts as they age, the international phenomena that the Slut Walk has sparked is incredible.
Over two hours we marched the streets of Chicago as survivors, ally’s, mothers and even sons. For that small period of time there was no shame or judgment, victims or boundaries. The hundreds of supporters of all shapes and sizes spoke up for those women whose voices are so often ignored. Enjoy the pictures ladies!!!
The word of the day was “No!” So simple yet so powerful. “No means no” a phrase everyone should carve into their brain no matter how stubborn!
From funny to serious to bilingual, the sinage at this rally was as diverse as the crowd that came out to march.
Educational and disturbing facts about sexual assault were common for the day, as enlightening as they were, they were also often hard to swallow.
Kids were everywhere! It was so amazing to see parents expose the next generations to such an event- hopefully they will carry it with them and spread the word.
The Chicago Outfit Rollergirls were there, dressed to impress! Donating money to Howard Brown Health Center from all ticket sales, these women are super active and ready for change!
The creation of a voice
Though there were no official numbers released of attendance, the plaza outside of the Thompson Center was packed- props to the organizers for a great turnout and a well thought out schedule!
Runner-up word of the day? Fabulous. No matter the dress, women strutted their stuff with nothing but pride and beauty.
The Burlesque Gals came out to support
Complimentary signs were also a great addition to the rally, including one and all in the end goal of a massively loud and effective unity.
The crew, ready to march!
Slut, whore, slag and every other word was embraced for a couple hours on a Saturday afternoon
Diversity was one of the main reasons the Slut Walk was so awesome, straight, queer, young, old, black, white- everyone was there!
Speech begins!
Consent was the name of the game- it’s a sexy word, no?
A long way to the back of the line, definitely easy to get lost
March is full of high energy
Yes, sluts do have rights!
he support of so many men gives us hope that they can help create the change that we envision!
Upbeat and smiling volunteers kept the march moving on one of the first hot days of summer
Even better- the 5 man band that we danced behind the whole way!
Slut Walk comes around its last corner to a near close
The end is near- the crowd heads over for inspirational speeches and more dancing
And then the rest of the walkers discover our private marching band, let the pride out ladies!!!
March is over. Let's hope there's one for 2012 (before we all die)?
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About Lauren
Lauren was born and raised in South Minneapolis and like many other innocent midwesterners got sucked into the black hole of Chicago politics 4 years ago. As the LGBT Coordinator for the Gery Chico for Mayor Campaign she attempted to take on the entire city and hasn’t looked back since. Now working for a communications firm, she spends her extra time running around with cases of PBR playing in different sports leagues, hosting couchsurfers from all over the place, and deciding how she is going to change the world. A simple lady at her core, she has decided that the first person to send her an edible arrangement must be the one.
Doesn’t Slut Walk support all victims of sexual abuse? When I attended, I was under the impression that it was an event to show support for all those victims of this evil sickness our society has.
Posted by Ronald Everest | September 23, 2012, 6:14 pmYes Ronald you are correct! Thanks for your comment. 🙂
Posted by Vivian | September 25, 2012, 4:08 pm