On April 30th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Campus Advocacy, Resources & Education mission is hoping to promote education and awareness about sexual and gender-based harassment.
Taking place in the Mary Couts Burnett Library, students will be invited to wear denim to support and stand in solidarity with survivors and challenge the harmful myths surrounding sexual violence.
The CARE mission is to advocate and support survivors of sexual assault, dating and domestic violence and stalking, to raise awareness and empower lasting change in the Fort Worth and TCU community.
Jaylynn West, Graduate Assistant for TCU CARE, said, “Wearing denim helps challenge the idea of victim blaming because it provides perspective to people who are not aware that sexual violence affects everyone, despite what they look like or what they are wearing.”
Denim Day started after a court in Italy overturned rape case because the judges believed the victims jeans were too tight to be taken off without her help and implying consent.
In response, women in the Italian Parliament wore jeans in protest.
This grew into a global moment.
Students who participate can learn more about the significance of Denim Day, pick up ribbons or buttons and leave messages and support for survivors.
“Our office works closely with the TCU Counseling and Mental Health Center, TCU faculty and staff and other community resources to ensure that the survivor feels supported in every aspect of their life and at every step of their journey,” West said.
This event also emphasizes that clothing is not an invitation for sexual violence and seeks to encourage a campus culture of empathy.
By taking part in Denim Day, the TCU community joins a bigger movement to confront and disregard the myths that contribute to sexual violence.
This allows us as a community to stand with survivors and promote a message that challenges societal norms, often blaming victims based on their attire.
“I hope that students open their minds around the detriment of victim-blaming and how it truly affects survivors who may just be someone in their circle of friends,” West said. “Wearing denim supporting this cause is amazing, and being a supportive friend is even better.”
This event reminds us that we have a role in stopping harmful ideas and supporting those affected.
To learn more about this event, check out @denimday.org and @tcuwhat2do.
