WGST Event

In lib Jackson there was the What Were You Wearing exhibit, it was extremely impactful and emotional. Many people often make the assumption that sexual assault happens because of what someone is wearing, especially when clothing is considered “provocative.” However, the outfits displayed proved that this idea is completely false. The clothing shown ranged from sweaty workout clothes and jeans to casual outfits and formal wear, demonstrating that sexual assault is never caused by clothing choices. The display made it clear that rape is about power, control, and the perpetrator’s decision to inflict harm, not about what the victim was wearing. Seeing the wide variety of outfits was heartbreaking because it showed how easily society places blame on victims instead of focusing on the actions of the perpetrator. The exhibit challenged harmful stereotypes and forced people to confront the reality that sexual assault can happen to anyone, regardless of age, style, or circumstance. I think the display was so powerful because it used something as simple as clothing to communicate such an important message and encourage people to think differently about victim blaming and sexual assault awareness.