the walks stem from a Toronto police officer saying (re: a rape) women shouldn't dress like sluts.
My thoughts are multiple.
First, the assaulter is always 100% at fault. Second, I think that women (and people in general) should know self defense in order to quash sexual assaults. While I will never fault a victim for being a victim, I do, however, think it is important for persons to stand up for themselves. Thus, on the facebook page for the local slutwalk, I suggested that the org try to offer self defense classes/info. I believe that the best way to defeat victimization is to fight back (and stats back me up). I was shot down.
While I dont support the name of slutwalk (I personally believe sluts are properly disparaged in the correct context), I do support the underlying premise that assaulters are bad ppl, and that victims should not be blamed.
I cannot help but think of a simple analogy, though: you leave your keys in the ignition of an unlocked car. While it is wrong if someone steals your car, there are step you could've taken to mitigate the likelihood that you would become a victim. I think that is applicable to some sexual assaults (again, I don't agree with blaming the victim, but I do hope that people take steps to protect themselves).
My suggestions of self defense training to the Slutwalk LBK organizers was shot down because they want to focus on the issue of "people shouldnt be victims." I agree, but I believe the premise is too ideal. Ideals are cute, but the world does not restrict itself to ideals. While I am disappointed Slutwalk organizers refused to consider self defense info, I think I might participate anyhow.