Event Date
Denim Day began in 1999 as a protest after an Italian Supreme Court overturned the rape conviction of a 45-year old driving instructor who had assaulted his 18-year old student. The Court of Appeals overturned his conviction stating that because the victim wore tight jeans, she would have needed to help him take them off, therefore making the sexual activity consensual rather than rape. The next day, the women of the Italian Parliament held a rally in protest of the decision on the steps of the Italian Supreme Court - all wearing jeans.
Join CARE and Health Promotion for Denim Day at the Farmers Market on Wednesday, April 29 from 10 AM–1 PM. Stop by our table to learn about the history and importance of Denim Day, write messages of support for survivors, and help raise awareness about sexual violence prevention. Wear denim in solidarity and stand with our campus community in supporting survivors and promoting a culture of consent.
More information about the history of Denim Day can be found in the New York Times article, "Ruling on Tight Jeans and Rape Sets Off Anger in Italy" or at DenimDay.Org.