April 27th marks Denim Day. Today is a day when people all around the world wear denim with a purpose, support survivors, and educated themselves and others about all forms of sexual violence.
The first Denim Day was held in 1999 but begins with a story from Italy in 1992. In 1992, a rape conviction was overturned by the Italian Supreme Court. The justices felt that since the survivor was wearing tight jeans, she must have helped him take them off, implying that she gave consent. In solidarity with the victim and protest of the court, women within the Italian Supreme Court wore jeans. Therefore, on Denim Day, you are encouraged to wear denim.
According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center in the United States, 81% of women and 43% of men reported experiencing some type of sexual harassment or assault in their lifetime. Sexual violence can affect anyone; whether it is yourself, a family member, a friend, or a coworker, odds are you know someone. Acknowledging that sexual violence happens and knowing the signs are two steps in decreasing violence and supporting survivors.
If you would like additional information or have questions about Denim Day, please visit Denim Day (denimdayinfo.org). To continue to support survivors and help eliminate all forms of sexual violence, please share this with others.
Sexual Assault Statistics | National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC)
Resources:
Open Arms Rape Crisis Center & LGBT+ Services
325-655-2000
325-658-8888: 24 Hour Hotline
Office of Title IX Compliance – Angelo State University
325-942-2022
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233
Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network
800-656-4673
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