By Fabiana Mcklmon
As Sexual Assault Awareness Month draws to a close, Guyana joined countries around the world in commemorating Denim Day, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness about sexual violence and challenging victim-blaming attitudes.
Organized by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, through its Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Policy Unit, Denim Day encouraged people across the country to wear denim as a symbol of solidarity with survivors of sexual assault.
Dr. Cona Husbands, Manager of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Policy Unit, emphasized the importance of Denim Day in combating victim-blaming attitudes.
By wearing denim, individuals sent a clear message that survivors should not be blamed for the violence they have endured.
Dr. Husbands highlighted the prevalence of sexual assault in Guyana and urged survivors to report incidents of abuse.
Despite a high rate of sexual assault cases, many incidents go unreported, particularly those involving children.
Denim Day served as a reminder to survivors that reporting sexual assault is crucial and that they are not to blame for the violence inflicted upon them.
The origins of Denim Day trace back to 1992, when an 18-year-old girl in Italy was raped by her driving instructor during her first lesson.
Despite the perpetrator’s initial conviction, the Italian Supreme Court later overturned the ruling, citing the victim’s tight jeans as evidence of consent.
This decision sparked outrage and led to the first Denim Day protest in Italy, where women wore jeans in solidarity with the survivor.
Now, 25 years later, Denim Day continues to serve as a powerful symbol of solidarity and resistance against sexual violence.
As Guyana commemorates Denim Day, it underscores the country’s commitment to raising awareness about sexual violence, supporting survivors, and challenging the attitudes that perpetuate victim blaming.