CSM to host “What Were You Wearing?” Survivor Art Installation
OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) is proud to host the “What Were You Wearing?” Survivor Art Installation from April 19-30. The exhibit aims to provide tangible responses to one of culture’s most pervasive rape myths and calls attention to the reality of sexual assault in our society.
This self-guided exhibit has been a prominent topic on college campuses since its inception in 2013. Although it has been displayed at multiple universities in the Midwest since 2013, the installation gained national notoriety in 2017 at the University of Kansas.
Victoria (Torri) Janicke, the on-campus OVW Grant Program Coordinator and Director of Project SPEAK is ecstatic and humbled to have this event on CSM’s campus. “This art installation was born out of an advocacy lens and asks one of the most insidious questions survivors of sexual assault face: “What were you wearing?”. Participants engage with the universal connection we all have with clothing and then reflect on what gives this specific rape myth so much power. Putting on clothing is so basic, and this realization moves move us away from blaming the victim for the violence and places responsibility where it belongs – on those who caused harm.”
This unique and impactful installation will be on display at CSM’s Hillmer Art Gallery during the week of April 19-30th. At the end of the tour, each participant is guided through an interactive call-to-action complete with several resources. For more information regarding the installation's content contact Victoria (Torri) Janicke at vjanicke [at] csm.edu or (402)-399-2676.
“What Were You Wearing?” is hosted by Project SPEAK and the CSM Art Department. Project SPEAK (Support, Prevention, Education, Awareness, Know your rights), is a federally funded program that encourages a comprehensive community approach to enhance victim safety, services and support through prevention education.
If you or someone you know has exhibited sexual violence/assault in the Omaha area contact the Women’s Center for Advancement 24/7 hotline at 402-345-7273. If outside the Omaha region/area please utilize the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline by calling (800)-656-4673 or chat online at online.rainn.org.
*Content Warning statement: This installation contains descriptions of gender-based violence. Please utilize self-care as needed. For confidential support, contact: Women’s Center for Advancement for support at (402)-345-7273 or National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1 (800) 656-4673 | chat online online.rainn.org
