Denim Day: A Symbol of Solidarity & Support for Survivors

DENIM DAY Is a symbol of solidarity, a visual representation of support, and a reminder that survivors are not alone.

Every April, Denim Day is observed, a powerful campaign aimed at raising awareness about sexual assault and dispelling harmful myths surrounding it. While the day serves as a broader call to action, it holds particular significance for survivors of sexual violence. It's a day where denim becomes a symbol of solidarity, a visual representation of support, and a reminder that survivors are not alone.

The origins of Denim Day are rooted in a 1992 Italian court case where a rape conviction was overturned because the victim was wearing jeans that were deemed too tight to be removed without her consent, implying she had consented to the assault. This absurd and victim-blaming judgment sparked outrage and ignited a movement. Women in the Italian Parliament protested by wearing denim, and the movement quickly spread globally.

 “Having had terribly impersonal experiences with therapists in the past, my counsellor at JAAR was above and beyond my expectations. I really felt listened to and cared about from her, as opposed to her just having to listen as her job. I am so grateful for all her support. I feel so much more confident and in a much better frame of mind to continue healing. I am so grateful for the help I received from JAAR.”

For survivors, Denim Day can be a complex and emotionally charged occasion. Seeing so many people wearing denim can be a powerful affirmation that their experiences are acknowledged and believed. It sends a message that society is listening and challenging the culture that often silences and blames survivors. Participating in Denim Day can be a step towards healing. It can be a way for survivors to reclaim their voice and take a stand against sexual violence. Wearing denim can be a symbolic act of taking back control and refusing to be silenced.

Ultimately, Denim Day is about creating a culture of respect and consent. It's a reminder that sexual assault is never the victim's fault, regardless of what they were wearing. For survivors, it's a day to remember their strength, resilience, and right to heal. It's a day to stand together and say, "We believe you. We support you. You are not alone."

Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR)

JAAR is an independent and confidential service helping individuals 16+ to recover from the trauma of sexual violence. JAAR stands with survivors and continues to shine a light on the deep, lasting impact of sexual violence. They recognise that sexual violence affects communities everywhere — and Jersey is no exception. In 2024 alone, 85 people received critical trauma-informed counselling and support from JAAR. These are not just statistics; they represent real people — friends, family members, neighbours — who are working to rebuild their lives after experiencing the trauma of sexual violence.

Sexual violence is far more prevalent in the local community than many might think. It is easy to look the other way, to assume that it doesn’t affect us, but the truth is that we cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand. Silence only perpetuates harm. We must face the reality that sexual violence happens here, and we must take action to support those affected and work towards lasting change.

 “When I first came to JAAR I thought I was OK but as time went on, I realised I did have trauma to work through and I have been supported fully at my time at JAAR by my counsellor. She has been amazing, and I feel very relaxed around her. If anything had happened unrelated to the incident but had created a trigger, she would fully support me and we would use our sessions for that. I never felt forced to talk about the actual incident or anything I did not feel comfortable with. I feel a lot more confident to move on now.”

JAAR provides a FREE 1:2:1 counselling service to support anyone affected directly or indirectly by sexual trauma or rape. The counselling sessions offer a safe, private, and confidential environment where survivors can share their experiences without fear of judgment. They take a trauma-informed approach, ensuring their fully qualified counsellors understand the complex impact of trauma and approach each session with sensitivity, empathy, and respect for the survivor’s unique needs.

The email helpline is available to people that have experienced rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment or childhood sexual abuse. The email helpline is also available to those supporting survivors. Everything shared is completely confidential and will not be disclosed to anyone outside of JAAR. They are not a crisis line or emergency service but rather a way to refer yourself for counselling. Email: help@jaar.je | www.jaar.je

JAAR to Host Denim Day March

Jersey Action Against Rape is calling on the community to join them for a Denim Day March and Demonstration in St Helier on Saturday 19th April 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. This powerful event will begin at West Centre and conclude at Royal Square, marching through Charing Cross. The march is part of JAAR’s Denim Day Campaign “Denim for Change: Wear the Story, Break the Silence”.