Photo: (facebook.com/denimdayinlaandusa)
It's time to break out your favorite pair of jeans, because today (April 24) is Denim Day. Founded in 1999 by the non-profit Peace Over Violence, Denim Day is a rape prevention and education campaign. The non-profit was inspired by an Italian court case in the 1990s where a victim of sexual assault was wearing jeans.
We've posted about the importance of not joking about rape and more during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, so you know we're wearing our favorite jeans today. If you want to get involved in the rape prevention/education campaign, we've got your covered. Here are four ways you can take a stand against rape on Denim Day.
+ Rock Your Denim
Got your favorite pair of jeans? Pulled that jean jacket out of the back of your closet? Whatever you're wearing, make sure you tell people why you're rocking the denim -- bonus points if you tie in this year's slogan: "There is No Excuse and Never an Invitation to Rape." For friends and strangers who might want more information, send them to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) to get the facts.
+ Take the Pledge
Head over to the Denim Day site and pledge to wear your favorite denim today. You can also download the tool kit if you want to raise awareness in your neighborhood or at your school. It's never too late to print out some of these educational posters and pass them out!
+ Support Your Local Rape Crisis Center
You can find your local rape crisis center. Call up your local center to see if you can volunteer and make a difference in the lives of survivors in your area. Encourage your friends to do the same!
+ Raise Your Voice
If you're stuck with a dress code and can't wear jeans, make sure you post to Facebook or Twitter to show your support of the campaign. Use the hashtag #DenimDay so others can join in on the conversation about rape prevention and education.
If you or someone you know need someone to talk to, the National Sexual Assault Hotline is free, confidential, and available 24/7 at 1.800.656.HOPE. If you don't feel comfortable speaking to someone over the phone, you can log on to the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline.