BOISE, Idaho — Boise Mayor Dave Bieter has joined local and national officials by proclaiming April 24 Denim Day in the City of Boise. The Women's and Children's Alliance (WCA) is partnering with local organizations and supporters to bring awareness to sexual assault and the dangers of victim blaming in our community through Denim Day.
Denim is worn in reference to a 1992 Italian sexual assault case in which a rape conviction was overturned by the Italian Supreme Court. According to the Chief Judge,the young woman wore "very, very tight jeans, she had to help him remove them, and by removing the jeans it was no longer rape but consensual sex."
In the 20th year of Denim Day, the campaign message remains the same. There is no excuse and never an invitation for sexual assault. Anyone can participate in Denim Day by wearing jeans, denim, a denim ribbon or an "Ask Me About Denim Day" Sticker on April 24.
"Wearing denim allows individuals to show solidarity to all survivors of sexual assault by sending the message that it does not matter what someone was wearing or doing, sexual assault is never a victim's fault," said Bea Black, WCA Executive Director. "This day of awareness also encourages all individuals, institutions and elected officials to challenge destructive attitudes and myths that surround sexual violence and to reduce violence in our communities."
Many businesses and organizations throughout the Treasure Valley are participating in Denim Day this year. The Boise Police Department, Boise School District, the Idaho National Guard, students groups at Boise State University and 100.3 KISS FM are just some participating. Denim Day materials are available at the WCA.
The Chi Omega Sorority, Alpha Kappa Lambda Fraternity and COMM 498 classes will be tabling from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Denim Day Outreach in the Boise State Quad. The proclamation signing will be taking place at 10:30 a.m. in the Mayor's Office at City Hall.
