In support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Penn State has been hosting an array of events focused on spreading awareness and educating students. To mark the end of the month, Denim Day will take place on Wednesday, April 26.

On Denim Day, people across the country annually wear denim to support victims of sexual violence. Penn State’s Gender Equity Center is encouraging students to wear denim to stand in solidarity with survivors and eliminate the stigma surrounding clothing choices and victim-blaming.

Denim Day is an annual event established in April 1999 as a response to a 1998 ruling by the Italian Supreme Court. The Italian Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction and claimed the victim’s jeans were too tight during the time of the assault, which allegedly implied their consent. The following day, women in the Italian Parliament came to work wearing jeans, showing their support and solidarity for the victim.

Participating students are asked to share pictures of themselves in denim on social media and to tag @pennstategeneq and @upua_psu on Instagram. Additionally, students can email pictures to Becca Geiger Wallen at [email protected] to be featured on the Penn State Gender Equity Center social media platforms.