What Were You Wearing? Dispelling myths about sexual violence and clothing

Abstract

The 'What Were You Wearing?' Exhibit is intended to dispel the common myth that clothing can indicate consent and/or invite sexual assault. Often, victims are asked "what were you wearing" following an assault, insinuating that clothing somehow invites sexual assault.These myths and stereotypes can protect perpetrators of crime instead of supporting and validating survivors. Victims of crime are not responsible for crimes committed against them. This exhibit collects stories and outfits of local survivors to highlight that clothing is not a cause of sexual assault, hoping this display will allow spectators to consider and challenge their own beliefs about sexual violence.