The slut walk promotes the idea that women should be able to dress however they want without the expectation of violence. During Slut Walk marches, many women dress provocatively, some in the clothes in which they were sexually assaulted, and some in day to day wear, to symbolize all women in all walks of life, showing that sexual assault affects all women and none of them were asking for it.
It highlights that so-called sluts do not cause rape; rapists do. In a city like New Orleans, Slut Walks take on a new significance. New Orleans, unfortunately, has become a city known for its rampant violence, not only against women. The violence at times seems indiscriminant, yet rape is a crime that primarily affects women.
Sex trafficking in New Orleans boomed after Katrina, affecting primarily women and children. This clear victimization of women is further complicated by the fact that women come to New Orleans, primarily as tourists, and expose themselves for Mardi Gras beads. In a way, this is just as empowering as the Slut Walks.
There is an expectation of sex, from strip clubs to the street itself. But there should never be an expectation of violence, of victimization. It is ridiculous, indecent, over the top, outrageous, and culturally significant. So put on your protesting pants or purple tutus and go go boots and head to Congo Square from 11 am to 1 pm Saturday and stand up for your right to be you, to wear what you want and be who you are without the threat violence.
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