The Student Counseling Center is hosting Denim Day to increase awareness of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Denim Day will be held from 11 a.m -2 p.m. April 27 at the courtyard of the Central Academic Building.
Students are encouraged to wear denim to show their support.
Wearing jeans to support this cause originated in Italy in the 1990s when an 18-year-old was raped by her 45-year-old driving instructor during her first driving lesson. The supreme court argued that because the victim was wearing very tight jeans, she had to help him remove them, and by removing the jeans it was not rape but consensual sex.
This became known throughout Italy as the “jeans alibi.” Enraged by the verdict, women in the Italian Parliament launched a protest wearing jeans on the steps of the Supreme Court. None of the male members participated in this protest.
Almost one in four undergraduate women experienced sexual assault or misconduct at 33 of the nation’s major universities, according to a report on the Association of American Universities website.
The university’s Title IX Office and student organizations also are participating in Denim Day. The tabling event and activities will focus on awareness, education and prevention of sexual assault.
“That’s why we encourage everyone to wear any type of denim as part of Sexual Assault Awareness month and that what you are wearing is not an excuse to be raped,” said Joni Baker, Title IX Coordinator.
“Prevention education, we really can’t do enough,” Baker said. “If you see something say something. We encourage everyone to say something. Step up, intervene and say something, We all need to look out for each other.”
Students can also access a virtual book display to learn more about sexual violence and ways to create a culture of support.
Students can visit room 202 of CAB for an in-person display of materials. People with disabilities who need accommodations should contact the library at 210-784-1500.
“We’re hoping that by providing these resources we’re increasing awareness about sexual assault and creating a community for victims,” said Sarah Timm, head of the library’s Public Services.
“We have collaborated with the Student Counseling Center to promote resilience and inspiration and care for our community.”
For more information visit https://tamusa.campuslabs.com/engage/event/8054589.
