What is Denim Day?

In 1999, the Italian Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction because the victim was wearing jeans. The Justices stated that since removing jeans "...is impossible if the victim is struggling with all her might," the victim must have assisted the attacker in removing her jeans, which they felt implied consent.

Denim Day began as a heated response to this verdict. However, it has now evolved into an internationally celebrated day to show your support for ending sexual violence, honoring survivors and raising awareness of the issue.

How do I Participate in Whatcom County's Fifth Annual Denim Day?

Participating is easy! Denim Day participants are asked to wear jeans to work and school on Friday, April 23 and display provided Denim Day materials. Materials may include stickers, posters, and table displays and will be provided for free.

Some businesses also include a fundraising component and use Denim Day to ensure that necessary services continue to be available for local victims of violence. Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS) provides many of these essential services, including a 24-hour hotline, prevention education, support groups and legal advocacy. We invite all businesses to use Denim Day as an opportunity to show your support both through public awareness and financial contributions. Ideas for contributing can be found on the attached registration form.

If you are a businessor other organization, you may consider participating by:

-  Encouraging employees to wear jeans to work and displaying Denim Day materials.

-  “Giving the Gift of Comfort” to employees by sponsoring each employee for $5 (Example:10 employees = $50). “Giving the Gift of Comfort” means showing your employees and the larger community that you care. Businesses choosing to contribute in this way will be featured in online and print advertising.

-  Encouraging employees to make a $5 donation to Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services (DVSAS) in order to ensure local victims of violence receive necessary services. Businesses choosing to contribute in this way will be featured in online and print advertisin

-  Clothing stores may participate by discounting denim items during the week of April 17-23 (these dates can be altered to better fit your needs) and donating a percentage of proceeds on these products to DVSAS. Businesses choosing to contribute in this way will be featured in online and print advertising and employees will receive “Denim Day Thanks You” stickers.

Who Can Participate in Denim Day?

Anyone! Businesses, schools, and individuals are encouraged to raise awareness by wearing jeans on Denim Day

Register your business/organization now!