Walsh University will unveil a powerful art installation titled “What Were You Wearing?” on Wednesday, March 26, at 3:30 p.m. in the Toot Global Learning Center atrium. This impactful exhibit, installed by Walsh University Museum Studies students, aims to challenge victim-blaming narratives surrounding sexual assault and emphasize that clothing does not cause assault—perpetrators do.
The opening reception will feature speakers including Molly MacMath, Director of COMPASS Sexual Assault Education, Prevention & Support, and Melanie Timco, Director for Prevention Education and Programming at Walsh. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with this important conversation while enjoying light refreshments.
The exhibit which will be shown throughout the month of April showcases representations of outfits worn by sexual assault survivors during their attacks, accompanied by their personal stories. Inspired by Dr. Mary Simmerling's poem “What I Was Wearing,” the project seeks to dispel the myth that sexual violence can be attributed to a person's choice of clothing.
In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April, this exhibit serves as a powerful reminder of Walsh University’s commitment to human dignity and fostering safe, respectful relationships on campus. QR codes throughout the exhibit will provide access to campus support resources, and visitors can complete a brief survey to have a survivor care kit donated in their honor to the COMPASS Rape Crisis Center in Stark County.
Walsh University invites students, faculty, staff, and community members to attend this important event and join the conversation about sexual assault prevention and survivor support. Light refreshments will be served.
