Denim Day in LA began in 1999 and has spread across Los Angeles County, the State of California, throughout the United States, and now all over the world - becoming a full-force national and international sexual violence prevention education campaign. Since then, tens of millions of people have participated by wearing jeans on purpose, with purpose!
1992—1999
Origin of the Incident
In 1992, the specific incident that inspired Denim Day occurs in Italy, where a young woman is raped by her driving instructor.
The perpetrator's conviction is overturned by the Italian Supreme Court in 1999, sparking outrage and protests across Italy.
1999—2003
Emergence of Denim Day
In response to the court ruling, women in the Italian Parliament wear jeans to work in solidarity with the victim.
This act of solidarity gains momentum, leading to the establishment of Denim Day as an annual event to protest against victim-blaming attitudes surrounding sexual violence..
2004—2008
Global Spread
Denim Day gains international recognition as awareness about the event spreads beyond Italy.
Organizations and individuals around the world start participating in Denim Day by wearing jeans and organizing events to raise awareness about sexual violence and support survivors.
2009—2013
Institutionalization and Advocacy
Denim Day becomes more institutionalized, with various organizations and advocacy groups taking the lead in organizing events and campaigns.
The movement emphasizes the importance of education, advocacy, and challenging harmful attitudes surrounding sexual violence and victim-blaming.
2014—2018
Expansion and Impact
Denim Day continues to grow in participation and impact, reaching broader audiences through social media and mainstream media coverage.
Organizations and individuals around the world start participating in Denim Day by wearing jeans and organizing events to raise awareness about sexual violence and support survivors.
2019—2023
Expansion and Impact
Denim Day continues to grow in participation and impact, reaching broader audiences through social media and mainstream media coverage.
Organizations and individuals around the world start participating in Denim Day by wearing jeans and organizing events to raise awareness about sexual violence and support survivors.
2024—BEYOND
Expansion and Impact
Denim Day continues to grow in participation and impact, reaching broader audiences through social media and mainstream media coverage.
Organizations and individuals around the world start participating in Denim Day by wearing jeans and organizing events to raise awareness about sexual violence and support survivors.
Throughout these years, Denim Day evolves from a symbolic act of solidarity into a global movement for awareness, advocacy, and support in the fight against sexual violence and victim-blaming.
We are on a mission to end sexual violence in all its forms and to disrupt rape culture.
