Discussion List for campus-based and allied personnel working to end gender-based violence on campus.

["Anamarie Joosse" <>]

I recently viewed a disturbing Old Navy advertisement on TV promoting one of 
their new lines of jeans called the Flirt.  The lyrics to the song playing in 
the ad suggest that when a woman "says no, and no again," this is part of the 
process of flirting.  This conveyance is very disturbing to me as a 
professional who has spent years working to improve communication regarding 
consent in the dating situation.  

It is imperative that we educate our students & the public, both male and 
female, that when a woman says no it means NO.  It's not a playful exchange 
that is meaningless and can be ignored, but a declaration of her intent that 
must be honored.  This advertisement goes against a belief system that we as 
sexual assault prevention professionals have been working hard to correct.  I 
would encourage anyone who is interested to send an e-mail to Old Navy 
expressing similar concerns about this advertising campaign.  Although 
perhaps meant to be cute and "just" flirtatious, the ad has a very damaging 
message that should not be promoted.

Here's the link to view the ad:  www.oldnavy.com 

Here's an address to voice your concerns:  

 

Anamarie 
Chair, Sexual Assault Prevention Team





Anamarie Joosse,MA,EdS,LLP
Broene Counseling Center, Calvin College
3201 Burton SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
ph:(616)526-6123  fax:(616)526-8504