Vincennes University is joining the global movement known as Denim Day, an annual event aimed at raising awareness about sexual violence and standing in solidarity with survivors.
Denim Day started more than 25 years ago in Italy. The country’s Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction, claiming the victim’s jeans were so tight that she must have helped remove them implying consent. The following day, the Italian Parliament came to work wearing jeans in protest, which sparked a global movement.
Today, the campaign is led by Peace Over Violence, headquartered in Los Angeles, and observed worldwide as a call to action and education around sexual violence prevention.
Kathleen Evans, a counselor at the Counseling Center, said, “Denim Day is about more than just wearing jeans. It’s about making a public statement that we reject rape culture.”
VU’s participation in Denim Day is a direct stand against harmful attitudes and behaviors that normalize or trivialize sexual assault.
“We want everyone on campus to feel safe and respected regardless of gender,” said Evans. We need to foster an environment where everyone understands and practices consent.”
One of the unique aspects of VU’s Denim Day campaign is the use of denim-colored bandanas as a visual show of support.
“They’re not just bandanas,” said Evans. “They come with an educational clip and a sticker students can place on their laptops, dorm doors, or cars. It’s a symbol that lasts beyond just one day.”
The color was chosen to closely match the look of denim, tying it directly to the campaign’s namesake.
“We brainstormed for a long time to come up with something meaningful and wearable,” said Evan’s
Participation isn’t limited to just wearing jeans. Evans encourages students to educate themselves on sexual violence, consent, and the cultural influences that often normalize problematic behavior.
“There’s a QR code on the bandanas that links to educational resources,” she said. “So many things we see on social media or in entertainment carry rape culture elements, whether we realize it or not learning to spot and challenge those attitudes is key.”
VU offers several on-campus and community resources for students impacted by sexual violence, such as the Title IX Office, which provides safety planning and supportive measures, the Counseling Center, and Hope’s Voice, an off-campus partner offering counseling, legal advocacy, and hospital support.
To those uncertain whether their participation makes a difference, Evan’s said, “It can’t hurt and it might help someone more than you know.”
She said that symbolic actions often speak volumes, and even quiet shows of support can create a safer, more inclusive community.
Evans also wanted to remind students that Denim Day is just one part of VU’s year-long commitment to preventing sexual violence.
“In the fall, we launch the Red Flag Campaign, and next October (2025) we’ll bring in a speaker to continue these conversations,” said Evans. “This isn’t just an April thing; it’s about creating a culture of respect, all year long.”
