During this global public health crisis of COVID-19, there are frequent messages reminding us we are all in this together. We have witnessed the building of virtual communal spaces and of community members supporting one another in various ways. Amidst the openly-discussed impacts of the coronavirus, Denim Day reminds us that the more silenced, worldwide epidemics of domestic and sexual violence are still happening, even during this global crisis.
Denim Day demands of us a steadfast commitment to uplifting survivors, educating ourselves and others while teaching violence prevention so that we reduce and eventually end sexual violence in all its forms.
Peace Over Violence has been in this fight to end domestic and sexual violence for five decades. We remain committed to supporting survivors during this global pandemic as well as into our next "new normal." By standing in solidarity with survivors later today, we will collectively reaffirm this commitment in community and disrupt rape culture.
With the end of April comes the closing of Sexual Assault Awareness Month but the work goes on. We hope you continue standing in solidarity with survivors and those that serve them by doing your part to help bring about a new world free from violence.
Connect with us on social media to stay up-to-date on everything Denim Day 2020 related. Share your photos and posts with us by tagging @PeaceOvrViolnce and using #DenimDay and #Solidarity.
April 29
Denim Day Press Conference 9:30am PDT
Los Angeles City Council President, Nury Martinez, will join Patti Giggans to officially declare and commemorate Denim Day in the city of Los Angeles. The press conference will be streamed live via Councilmember Martinez's social media platforms.
In solidarity, let's wear our denim with a purpose or download one of our "California Stands with Survivors" Zoom backgrounds and *log in* to advocate for sexual and domestic violence programs at 10am PDT.
Hosted by Peace Over Violence's Prevention squad, three POV volunteers will participate in a game of Denim Day-themed Jeopardy. Join in on the fun!
To tune in as an audience member, send a direct message at @youthoverviolence on Instagram.
April 29
Survivor Virtual Rally 2:00pm PDT/5:00pm EDT
Let's gather our virtual selves in the virtual world for an unprecedented Denim Day Survivor Virtual Rally. For those of us who have been wearing pajamas and sweatpants for the past few weeks, we can change into our denim for a good cause today!
We'll be joined by community leaders, survivors, advocates, and friends to recognize this important day. Don't forget to wear your jeans with a purpose to spread the message that there is no excuse and never an invitation to harass, abuse, assault, or rape.
Tune In
One on one, one by one - Powered by POV’s volunteers
“One on One, One by One” is a recently launched virtual education program that will engage community members from different generations on a variety of topics. It will be powered by our POV volunteers who will lead discussions with folks on social media, in virtual meetings, and in their homes.
Even though today is Denim Day, you can still use your Denim Day gear year-round to organize and mobilize those around you to disrupt rape culture. There is still much work to be done and our materials, like our Action Kit, can help you to continue standing in solidarity with survivors and build a more just and safe world.