Denim Days is a transnational movement aimed at combatting sexual violence, particularly the victim blaming that often accompanies it. The movement was inspired by a case where a woman was sexually assaulted by her driving instructor during her very first lesson. While he was originally arrested and prosecuted, it was overturned by the Court, with the Chief Justice arguing that the victim wore very tight jeans, and therefore would have had to help remove them consentually. There are numerous examples even on this campus when victims of sexual assault are held entirely or partially responsible for the harm that befell them.
Denim Days was first celebrated on CU’s campus in Spring 2011. It was organized by seniors in Women and Gender Studies who were working on a multi-strategy approach to addressing sexual violence on campus. The last few years, the Gender Justice League has sponsored what has become a week of activism with the support of volunteers and various organizations on campus, such as CAPS and OVA.
Denim Days has several different goals. First, to create awareness around the issue of gender-based violence, in particular sexual violence, on campus. Second, to challenge rape culture and victim blaming. Third, to provide resources or information about resources to members of the community
2016 Events:
Bake Sale: Pastries Against the Patriarchy
Monday, April 11, 11am-1pm
ÌýÌý outside the VAC
Come buy some yummy Voodoo Donuts from the Gender Justice League to raise funds to support MESA (Moving to End Sexual Assault).
Film Screening: The Hunting Grounds
Tuesday, April 12,Ìý 5pm-7pm
ÌýÌý ECON 117
From the team behind The Invisible War comes a startling expose of rape crimes on U.S. campuses, institutional cover-ups and the brutal social toll on victims and their families. A panel will assemble after the film screening for a focused conversation around resources and support, with a representative from OVA.
Silent Vigil for Solidarity
Wednesday, April 13, 12:45pm-1pm
Ìý Norlin Quad
Ten minutes of silence for solidarity with victims of gendered and sexual violence in front of the denim display on the Norlin Quad.
Sex Positivity Discussion w/ Biphoria, GSC & OVA
Wednesday, April 13,Ìý 5pm-6pm
ÌýÌý C4C 450
Join us for a discussion on sex positivity in the LGBTQ and Allied Communities, with members from Biphoria, the Gender & Sexuality Center, and OVA
Self Defense Workshop
Friday, April 15, 4pm-5pm
Ìý Gates Woodruff Cottage
Empower yourself with this Comprehensive Self Defense Workshop! Features discussions around dating and interpersonal violence, emotional/psychological self defense, etc.
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