What’s in a name?

“Hey, mom. Just going to SlutWalk. Be back later.”

How proud would moms and dads across the country be to hear their teen son or daughter say that?

Unfortunately, SlutWalk isn’t as well known as many other call-to-action protests/demonstrations. And the controversial name of the rally might have got it some attention at first, but is it enough to keep it going? Apparently not, according to organizers.

I remember the first time I heard the name. I wasn’t sure what it was. I thought maybe it was something like a Zombie Walk or something to legalize prostitution. But then when I thought about it further, why would actual prostitutes proudly take part in something calling them sluts?

I’m not making a joke. I honestly had no idea.

After paying attention to a news story I learned that SlutWalk is a protest that was formed a couple years ago after a Toronto police officer’s sexist comment — “Women should avoid dressing like sluts in order not to be victimized” — during a public talk about crime prevention.

People were outraged and took to the streets.

Now organizers say they are considering a name change because of the poor turnout at rallies across the country.

So yes, on the surface the name SlutWalk was shocking enough that it got people talking (in 2011) but interest has fizzled out and not many people are willing to participate in a movement that isn’t as widespread as some other equal rights causes… and that quite frankly has lots of public misconception.

Can you think of what it should be renamed? Is using the “bad” word helpful to get a message across? I would love to hear your suggestions.