The month of April is Sexual Assault Awareness month. This is a topic that I care deeply about, am a strong advocate for, and that is very near and dear to my heart because I am a survivor. Every 92 seconds an American is sexually assaulted. The purpose of this month is to raise awareness of this issue, educate people on the issue, and support those survivors who have been effected by sexual assault. This year is the 20th anniversary of Denim Day. This year, Denim Day will be Wednesday April, 24th. I challenge you to participate with me a week from today.
Why Denim?
For the past 20 years, an organization called, Peace Over Violence has run a campaign called Denim Day on a Wednesday in April in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
The campaign began after a ruling by the Italian Supreme Court where a rape conviction was overturned because the justices felt that since the victim was wearing tight jeans she must have helped the person who raped her remove her jeans, thereby implying consent. The following day, the women in the Italian Parliament came to work wearing jeans in solidarity with the victim.
Denim Day came to be in response to this case and the activism surrounding it. Since then, wearing jeans on Denim Day has become a symbol of protest against ignorant and destructive attitudes about sexual harassment, abuse, assault and rape.
How to participate?
Simply wear denim – jeans, shorts, jacket, skirt.
On this day we ask people of the community, elected officials, businesses, students, anyone to take a stand and make a social statement with their clothes for the day by wearing jeans on this day. There are so many misconceptions, especially with woman and sexual assault. Use this day to support the people in your life who have been effected by sexual assault.
So join me on April 24th for the 20th annual Denim Day. On this day millions of people across the world will wear jeans with a purpose, support survivors, and educate themselves and others about all forms of sexual violence.
Share your #DenimDay pictures with me as we all stand up for this issue together!
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