In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Kaua‘i will observe National Denim Day on April 30. Individuals and organizations are encouraged to wear denim to support survivors of sexual violence. The event is organized by the Zonta Club of Kaua‘i, the Kaua‘i Committee on the Status of Women, and the YWCA of Kaua‘i, as reported by the County of Kauai.
At 11:30 a.m., the public is invited to the Denim Day Proclamation Presentation at the County of Kaua‘i Rotunda, according to the County of Kauai. The event includes statements from community leaders, including Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. Regina Carvalho, President of the Zonta Club of Kaua‘i, said, “As we build awareness for Denim Day, let us not forget that regardless of what a woman wears—or doesn’t wear—at no time is she asking to be violated.”
Denim Day is an annual event that began after a 1990s Italian Supreme Court ruling overturned a rape conviction based on the victim’s clothing. In response, members of the Italian Parliament wore jeans in protest, which led to the creation of Denim Day as a way to raise awareness about sexual assault. Edie Ignacio Neumiller, a Kaua‘i Commissioner with the Hawai‘i State Commission on the Status of Women, stated, "Denim Day is when community members, survivors, elected officials, businesses, caregivers, and students wear denim as a visual statement of support for all survivors and to combat misconceptions about sexual assault." On Kaua‘i, those interested in participating can contact Lori Barrett, Chair of the Kaua‘i Committee on the Status of Women. For disability or language accommodations, contact Anela Davis. Early requests are encouraged, as stated by the County of Kauai.
