On April 24th, people from all over raise awareness and support those who have experienced sexual violence. Approximately over 8 million people participate and will wear jeans with the purpose to raise awareness.
The history behind Denim Day dates back to 1999 when an 18-year old girl was raped by a 45-year old man. He was also the girl's driving instructor and was taking her for her first driving lesson. When suddenly he took her to an abandoned road, pulled her out of the car, and took advantage of her. Initially, he was sent to jail after she reported him, but after a few years, he appealed the conviction by claiming the sex had been "consensual."
When the case was brought to the Italian Supreme Court, they overturned the rape conviction, and the predator was released. They came to the decision to overturn the case because they believed the victim helped the defendant take off her jeans since they were reportedly tight. They believed because she had on tight jeans the accuser couldn't possibly take them off alone. They truly believed because she was wearing tight jeans, it was implied consent. This story became famously known as the "jean alibi."
After this mighty let down, the women who were in the Italian Parliament came to work the next day in jeans. They did this to show how the system had failed, they did this to stand in solidarity, they did this to show this can not be dismissed. By the women in power doing this, the protest was then picked up by international media. By these women taking a stand, it inspired the California Senate and Assembly to do the same protest on the steps of the Capitol in Sacramento.
The activist group Peace Over Violence aims to build healthy relationships, families, and communities free from violence, including but not limited to sexual, domestic, and interpersonal. When this happened, Peace Over Violence took the responsibility to develop the Denim Day campaign. In April of 1999, the first Denim Day event was held in Los Angeles. Fast forward to April 24th, 2019 we celebrate the 20th annual Denim Day. Denim Day has become a symbol of protest against misleading and destructive attitudes about harassment, abuse, assault, and rape.
If you're looking to get involved visit either Denim Day or Peace for Violence to learn how. They have numerous ways to get involved and although this has been a long fight for change and equality for everyone, it is a fight that will not stop until we have a safe environment for all.
