Denim Day

A holiday raises awareness about all forms of sexual violence on the last Wednesday of April every year, called Denim Day.

We do not condone victim blaming and this is why, on Denim Day on April 28th, we stand in solidarity with survivors and victims of sexual assault. Held annually on the last Wednesday of April, Denim Day begins as a campaign against sexual assault advocates. In 1998, an 18-year-old girl was raped by a 45-year-old driving instructor in Italy. A year later, the perpetrator was released after the court overturned his conviction. He appealed that the girl who had sex 'consented' him because she was wearing a pair of tight jeans that could only be taken off with her help. The next day, Italian women protest the absurdity of the overturned verdict by wearing jeans to work.

History of Denim Day

Denim Day was first celebrated in 1999 when an Italian court accepted a rapist's appeal and overturned his sentence. Arousing outrage and protests around the world, Italian women have come to work in denim jeans and other outfits. The California Senate and Congress also support their men, and to show respect of American women entering Congress also wear sporty jeans. Patricia Giggans who was an American feminist and an executive director of LA's Assault Committee (now known as Peace for Violence), was inspired by these events and named the day.

In the case of the 18-year-old girl raped in 1998, it started as a normal day when she was picked up to school bus by her driving instructor. However, things quickly take a turn for the worst when he rapes her. Before she was released home, the rapist threatened to kill her if she told anyone. At the end, she informed her parents about the incident and the rapist was arrested and prosecuted as soon as possible. A year later, however, he appealed his case and was released after the court agreed to his request that the victim's tight jeans could not be removed without his consent.

Sexual assault is traumatic. It is difficult to discuss and as a result, perpetrators of sexual assault often walk away unsuspecting. Furthermore, survivors and victims are often not blamed for the incident. These attitudes also lead to lax legislation that does not help for survivors and victims. Therefore, Denim Day aims to rid the world of such attitudes and laws to bring real justice and support to those who deserve it.

Some reasons for Denim Day being loved

• It's a celebration of determination

Absolute determination can help us achieve many things. It is only through determination that many laws and behaviors have been passed in favor of sexual assault survivors. If people give up, the orthodox laws will still apply.

• It's a celebration of unity

Both men and women from all ages and backgrounds can be victims of sexual assault. Therefore, we have to show our support and solidarity with them. Coming together as a community will lead to a better future for the next generations.

• It is a celebration of the power of women

If 1999 wasn't for women's advocates, Denim Day wouldn't exist today. Women can be each other's greatest allies when they share experiences due to patriarchy.

How to celebrate Denim Day

• Wearing denim

Wearing denim is the most effective way to celebrate this day. It doesn't have to be jeans as you can wear a denim jacket, shirt, hat, etc.

• Enhance your voice

Raise your voice to support survivors and victims. Do not be silent for them and for yourself. Show the perpetrators that you are against them and will do anything to stop them.

• Consciousness spreads

Spread awareness within your circles and on social media. Call on advocates for their erroneous views. It's the 21st century and although we may have made a lot of progress in the fields of science and technology, many of us still have orthodox views on sexual assault and social issues is different.