For as long as we keep on using “she’s asking for it” in everyday conversations, asking “What was she wearing?” in the court rooms, and allowing media & news to bombard women with safety tips, women’s rights and freedoms will continue to be restrained & regulated, survivors of sexual assault will continue to suffer in silence, while rapists will continue to act with impunity, confident in the knowledge that their actions will receive far less scrutiny than those of the women they assault.

It’s up to all of us to start changing perceptions and attitudes. We need to shift society from focusing on women’s fashion choices and onto the actions of perpetrators.  Here are some ways you can start shifting society:

• Educate your peers on women-shaming and victim-blaming, start a challenging but rewarding conversation on the topic. Here’s a link to some questions that can start the conversation.
• Spread the message, print and post posters around your neighbourhood (8.5×11 poster or 8.5×14 poster)
• Join WAVAW’s new series of Social Minglers around Vancouver. Sign-up to be notified!

Other ways to stay connected with WAVAW and be part of the solution:

• Stay connected with WAVAW through our Facebook, Twitter and WAVAW’s e-newsletter
• Check out WAVAW’s other campaigns that challenge thinking, actions, and systems that negatively impact women’s lives!
• Participate in our educational outreach. WAVAW is out and around the Lower Mainland at community events, universities, etc. come by our next event!

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Thank you to Rape Crisis Scotland and their “Not Ever” campaign for inspiring this campaign and for their support & permission to use aspects of their content.