Denim Day is held every year on the last Wednesday of April to support survivors of sexual assault and raise awareness about victim blaming. It began in 1999 after a court in Italy overturned the rape conviction of a man, claiming the 18-year-old victim must have helped remove her tight jeans, so the act was “consensual.” This unfair ruling caused outrage, and women in Italy — and later around the world — wore jeans to protest.
Inspired by this act, American activist Patricia Giggans started Denim Day to speak out against harmful myths and attitudes about sexual assault. By wearing denim, we stand with survivors and call for justice and change.
In honor of Denim Day, the Center for Student Wellness will close out Sexual Assault Awareness Month by hosting a Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and a silent march at noon beginning and ending on Central Mall. The first 100 attendees will receive a free T-shirt.
You can reach a confidential advocate at any time with questions or support requests by calling (414) 288-5244, Marquette’s confidential advocacy hotline, or by emailing advocacy@marquette.edu.
More information regarding advocacy services is available online.
