By Chrystal Anderson, CU CARES Coordinator
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Clemson University joined as a family on April 17 as Denim Day was honored on Clemson University’s campus. The premise for Denim Day began in 1992 when an 18-year-old woman in Italy was sexually assaulted by her driving instructor. The instructor was initially convicted with a rape charge; however, this charge was overturned. The judge ruled that the victim was wearing very tight jeans and must have assisted her assailant in taking her jeans off, thereby implying consent. The following day, women in the Italian Parliament came to work wearing jeans to stand in solidarity in support of the victim of sexual assault.
California-based Peace Over Violence then began Denim Day as an effort to stand in solidarity with survivors and protest erroneous attitudes about sexual assault. On April 17, various individuals including CAPS counselors, Clemson’s interpersonal violence prevention coordinator, representatives from local crisis centers and Clemson students gathered on Library Bridge, in Hendrix and at the Student Union to provide information about sexual assault, resources for those impacted by sexual assault and giveaways for people to show their stand against sexual assault. Many other individuals on campus participated in this event by wearing denim. This event was a great success, with much of this success due to the wonderful involvement from Clemson’s faculty and staff.
It became very evident throughout the day that our faculty and staff have made efforts to spread the word about Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Denim Day, as well as participate in various events. There is so much appreciation for those who have taken the time to show support for survivors, speak out against sexual assault, and/or talk with friends, family, colleagues, and students about Denim Day. This event was absolutely a testament to the difference that we can make when we join together for a cause. Thank you, all of you, for joining in efforts to combat this global epidemic that impacts our Clemson Family.
