Observe Denim Day
Soroptimist International of Fayette County is part of a global organization that provides support for women and girls in our communities to gain economic empowerment by providing access to education. The organization helps women and girls pursue their dreams by removing barriers.
April is designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Wednesday specifically is recognized as Denim Day. This day came to be in the 1990s when a rape conviction in Italy was overturned when the justices decided that because the victim was wearing tight jeans, that she must have helped her attacker remove them, implying consent. The members of Soroptimist International of Fayette County invite residents of our county to show solidarity with victims of sexual violence and wear denim on that day. We also invite businesses and elected officials to observe the day as well by encouraging employees to show their support by wearing denim on that day.
The aftermath of sexual assault, including fear, shame and embarrassment is considered a barrier to victims being able to pursue opportunities such as higher education which can elevate her family’s economic status and empowerment to live her dreams.
There are agencies in our county that provide support to victims of sexual violence, and we applaud their efforts. Please consider providing support to these agencies so they may continue their support of victims.
Help us and the other agencies in our county to raise awareness about the misconceptions surrounding sexual assault. Help others to realize that rape is an act of control and is in no way an act of love.
Victims of sexual assault or violence can reach out to the Fayette County Crime Victims Center at their crisis hotline at 724-437-3737.
Catherine Foreman
Denise DeHaas
Catherine Foreman is the president of Soroptimist International of Fayette County and Denise DeHaas is the group’s president-elect.