Denim Day

Denim Day History

Denim Day aims to raise awareness about sexual assault and foster empathy towards survivors. This day carries profound significance as it dispels misconceptions and highlights the need for consent education and sexual violence prevention. Participants across countries, including Canada, sport denim attire to visibly support the cause, transforming the staple material into a statement of solidarity.

This annual advocacy event was conceived in response to a 1998 Italian Supreme Court decision, which overturned a rape conviction due to the belief that the victim's jeans were too tight to have been removed without her consent. The ruling sparked international outrage, with people around the world wearing jeans to protest the distorted reasoning. For Canadians, Denim Day represents an opportunity to challenge the persistent myths that perpetuate sexual violence within the nation and contribute to the cultural shift towards understanding and respect.

In Canada, Denim Day is observed with various activities spreading awareness about the issue. Civic groups, universities, and other institutions hold events involving informative speeches, community dialogues, and performances dedicated to the cause. People share messages on social media platforms featuring them wearing denim and promoting consent education. Victims of abuse are also encouraged to share personal stories to empower others and de-stigmatize discussions surrounding sexual violence. Denim Day typically occurs on the last Wednesday in April each year.

Facts about Denim Day

• According to the World Health Organization, about 1 in 3 (or 35%) of women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or sexual violence by a non-partner at some point in their lives.
• According to RAINN, eight out of ten cases of rape, the victim knew the perpetrator.
• The CURE Foundation established National Denim Day after they saw that breast cancer was the most common cancer among Canadian women, targeting an estimated 26% of new cancer cases in women in 1997.
• As of 2021, the campaign has raised more than 31 million dollars for the fight against all forms of cancer affecting women, setting a record in the history of this Canadian foundation.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Denim Day

Top things to do in Canada for Denim Day

• Wear Denim: On this day, Canadians are encouraged to wear denim and the special "pink flower" button, which is a symbol of the fight against breast cancer.
• Purchase CURE Merchandise: Denim Day merchandise such as buttons, pins, and hats are sold, and the proceeds go towards breast cancer research.