He has apologized, but his comment indexed the kinds of poorly-thought-through ideas which in the end cast blame on victims of sexual assault. It is especially worrisome in a person who should help enforce the relevant laws.
So on April 3rd 1,500 to 3,000 people participated in "Slut Walk," a protest march, in Toronto.
According to a commenter (UnabashedOpinion) on the Globe and Mail's website:
What we're hoping for is really simple: That Toronto Police Services (1) Revamp their training curriculum on sexual assault and domestic violence, using experts in the field to provide content (the current curriculum was developed exclusively by the police themselves; (2) That experts in the field be used to actually teach the material (currently it is inadequately trained cops teaching ignorant cops); (3) That good methods of adult education be used in the teaching so that the learning sustains and actually transforms ingrained attitudes (currently, no actual learning takes place, since no transformation of worldview and understanding occurs).
The police department said that the officer's remark was "unacceptable" and that, "Our actions and behaviour must never cause doubt or bring discredit to the reputation of the service."
Which I think is a good step forward.
"Women walk the talk after officer's offending ‘slut’ remarks" [Globe and Mail] by Greg McArthur (April 4, 2011)
Comment section [Relevant comment at 11:31 AM on April 4, 2011]
P.S.: Don't read the comments . . .
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Update: A real-life example of victim blame inspires a "slut walk" protest in Indonesia on September 18th.
"Woman Catches Her Rapist In Traffic Jam, Helps Inspire Indonesia’s Slut Walk" [Jezebel], by Irin Carmon (September 19, 2011)
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