Controversial "Rape Shirt" Pulled Out Of SM Mall Shelves

A T-shirt with a rather disturbing message was seen on the stands of SM Supermalls in the Philippines. The message: "It's not rape. It's a snuggle with a struggle."

image grabbed from Facebook

The photo was brought to everyone's attention thanks to the vigilance of a certain Karen Kunawicz, who immediately posted the photo on Facebook. As expected, the photo went viral that very same day, gaining the ire and disbelief of Filipinos and foreigners alike. The bulk of the blame went to SM, which ironically promotes a strong social and moral image.

From the boys' clothing section. Why are we still dealing with this? #RapeCulture (hat tip to Karen Kunawicz). pic.twitter.com/XwAS7OMM84
— Kaylin (@KaylinNeely) September 23, 2014

Really SM, really? By selling this shirt, you're tolerating rape. Shame on you pic.twitter.com/ZZetpuYjoo
— Roselle De Leon (@roselledl) September 22, 2014

SM released this statement after being informed about the existence of the horribly themed shirt. It reiterated that the company does not support irresponsible and malicious acts that mock important and sensitive social issues.

@smsupermalls has released a statement on the sale of a t-shirt with questionable slogan portraying rape as OK pic.twitter.com/QMma0qXf8d
— Manila Bulletin News (@manila_bulletin) September 23, 2014

Netizens were generally thankful that the shirts were taken off the shelves immediately, but this didn't put SM out of hot water. Tweets and posts continued to pour, criticizing SM's lack of discretion in selecting the kinds of merchandise they put on display

Dear SM, if you don't approve of the #SMRapeShirt message HOW DID IT END UP IN YOUR RACKS IN THE FIRST PLACE? DON'T YOU EVEN CHECK?!
— Jess Saying (@sinasabinijess) September 24, 2014

Rumors about the origin of the shirts also spread like a viral disease. The infamous rape shirt has been linked to the shirt collection (also sold in SM) endorsed by the DJs of the radio show "Boy's Night Out." As a result, the boys also got a good share of hatred and unkind words from their fans and haters.

Not really surprised "@lightxyear: Apparently the SM rape shirt is from a BNO collection. Wow."
— Gela (@earthtogela) September 22, 2014

The DJs were quick to deny that the shirts were in any way connected with them. They individually sent out clarificatory tweets about the issue, and even discussed the topic in length during their Tuesday show.

The shirt that was posted on Facebook is NOT part of the BNO Tees collection. Rape is a very serious matter. We are against it. No means no.
— Sam Gogna (@sam_yg) September 23, 2014

Whoever created these shirts, they are either really insensitive or really stupid. Rape is a serious violation of a person's dignity, and should never be taken lightly.


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