April marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education and advocacy against gender-based violence. A pervasive and damaging myth persists in society: that women are sexually assaulted because of what they wear. This belief not only shifts blame onto victims but also perpetuates a culture of impunity for offenders.
The 'What Were You Wearing?' Exhibit: A Powerful Rebuttal
Annually, during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, an international survivor art installation titled "What Were You Wearing?" is held in numerous locations worldwide. Named after the invasive question often posed to survivors of sexual violence, this exhibit displays the actual clothing or recreations of outfits that survivors were wearing during their assaults. Each piece is accompanied by personal stories from the survivors, creating a poignant and undeniable narrative.
Dispelling Harmful Myths
The primary aim of this exhibit is to dismantle long-held victim-blaming beliefs that erroneously link clothing to sexual assault. The reality, as starkly presented through these displays, is that clothing is irrelevant to the crime. Sexual offenders commit acts of violence independent of a victim's conduct or attire. Yet, historically, women's clothing has been a focal point for control and criticism, with accusations that they "invite" assault through their dress.
This narrative serves as a tool for perpetrators to evade accountability. By suggesting that women's existence or choices provoke misbehavior, it places the onus on victims rather than holding offenders responsible for their actions. It implies a lack of self-control in men, framing their harmful behavior as an inevitable response rather than a conscious choice.
The Tragic Irony of Safety Measures
Women are often advised to modify their behavior and appearance to avoid assault—from lowering hemlines and raising necklines to carrying weapons for protection. This creates a sad and tragic dynamic where women must become invisible or hyper-vigilant to feel safe. Why should the burden fall on women to prevent crimes committed against them?
From childhood, girls are raised to be cautious, while boys are taught to be in control, inadvertently reinforcing roles of prey and predator. This upbringing normalizes the idea that women need protection from harm, rather than addressing the root cause: the entitlement and actions of those who choose to harm.
A Call for Cultural Shift
Instead of chastising women for their clothing, society must castigate men who seek excuses to commit violence. Women have the right to wear what they want for comfort, self-expression, and confidence without fear. The exhibit underscores that sexual assault is never the victim's fault; it is a crime rooted in power and choice, not fabric.
Ultimately, the message is clear: we are not the problem. By amplifying survivor voices and challenging myths, we can foster a culture where women are seen as human beings, not objects, and where safety is a given, not a privilege earned through invisibility.
