On June 4th 2011, inspired by the Slutwalk in Toronto there was a Slutwalk in Amsterdam. A demonstration to promote sexual freedom and autonomy. Freedom to express yourself how you are, physically, sexually and emotionally. It was a protest against ignorance and a society where victims of sexual violence get the blame, people who differ from the norm in sexual interest can’t walk freely on the streets and where people are still expected to behave to gender specific dogmas.
The demo appeared to be a success with hundreds people attending and walking the streets expressing themselves. You had almost everything from ‘conservatively’ clothed to almost no clothing, in full color and in plain black. It was a merry bunch of protesters from all corners and shades, surrounded by an army of photographers. The only downside of the demo seemed to have was that it was too short.
Sadly I arrived a bit late, but still managed to shoot some impressions.
Walking down the spuistraat.
Lots of signs making statements on how your ‘dresscode’ is not an invitation to rape.
The protestors arriving at het Spui.
A hand pulled cart was used for announcements, music and for visibility
At the end of the demonstration, het Spui
For a still fairly small demonstration, there was a surprising amount of photographers. Here a horde of them is taking pictures of two girls kissing, apparently a noteworthy event.
I heard there is one planned for 2012, but bigger and longer.