In 2011, a Canadian police officer told women that in order to avoid being sexually assaulted and victimized, “Women should avoid dressing like sluts.” From the comment, the S.L.U.T. Walk was created.

The Satirically Lessening Unfair Theories Walk is in direct response to the victimizing and rape-culture around the globe. The walk, which is hosted by the Women’s Empowerment League, will be at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday in the South Quad.

Jeannie Ludlow, an English professor and coordinator of women’s studies, said the women who started the campaign had enough.

So, in protest to the victim blaming of women, they decided to come together, some dressing provocatively as a way of making a point.

“It doesn’t matter what your wear, if someone is going to call you a slut—they will call you a slut,” Ludlow said.

Ludlow said though it was meant as a way to take back the word from those who use it negatively, there are some women of color who do not feel they have the privilege of using the word.

If a white man calls a Latin woman a slut, she may feel that the word was used specifically because she is a minority, Ludlow said.

Ludlow said some women might think taking the word back can require some form of cultural privilege; however, Ludlow said there are also women of color who participate in the march.

Though aimed specifically at women, men can participate in the event and they have, Ludlow said. Last year was Eastern’s first time putting the event on and two boys decided to strip down to their boxers and join in on the march.

“If you really want to change the power of this word, everyone has to work together,” Ludlow said.

Compared to 13 percent of males who are at risk for being victims of sexual assault, 25 percent of women are also at risk, Ludlow said.

Ludlow said last year, she had a decent amount of students come to her and admit that they had been sexually assaulted.

In order to bring an end to victim blaming, this event is a way to show others no matter what gender or what they are wearing, it is never OK to be sexually assaulted, Ludlow said.

      Roberto Hodge (@BertoHodge) can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected]