Waypoints will present the "What Were You Wearing?" Survivor Art Exhibit—originally developed in 2013 by Dr. Mary Wyandt-Hiebert at the University of Arkansas and adapted by Kansas University—to confront and dismantle harmful myths surrounding sexual violence.​

This installation was developed through an advocacy lens, shaped by the harsh reality that the question “What were you wearing?” is still a common—and deeply harmful—response to disclosures of sexual violence. It invites participants to reflect on an important truth: it was never about the clothing.​

While removing those garments may symbolize a gesture of release, it cannot restore peace or bring comfort to those who have experienced sexual violence. The harm is not found in the fabric itself; it becomes embedded in the survivor’s lived experience, carried forward in ways that clothing can never contain.​

If only ending sexual violence were as simple as changing our clothes. In reality, it requires each of us to pause and examine the beliefs, systems, and social norms that allowed this question to exist in the first place:​

“What were you wearing?”​

The exhibit will be on display at Keyano College from May 5th–9th. The installation features everyday outfits—such as jeans, a business suit, a school uniform, and pyjamas—worn by individuals when they experienced sexual violence.​

Content Warning: This exhibit addresses sensitive topics and may be distressing for some. We encourage you to approach it with care. If you or someone you know needs support, Waypoints is here to help. Please reach out to our Sexual Trauma Support Services at system.navigator@waypointswb.ca or call our Sexual Trauma Support Services line at +1 (780) 791-6708 for assistance.