WHEREAS, Denim Day was created in April 1999, as a symbol of protest in response to an Italian high court decision to overturn a rape conviction because the victim was wearing tight denim pants; and
WHEREAS, Denim Day is intended to draw attention to the fact that rape and sexual assault remain a blight on society, and that as violent crimes these acts affect our citizens, whether as a victim/survivor, a family member, a significant other, a coworker, or a health professional; and
WHEREAS, every Alaskan, regardless of age, race, culture, or status deserves to live free from harm and fear of sexual assault or abuse, and no one has the right to force, threaten, or manipulate anyone into sexual activity; and
WHEREAS, it is common for survivors of sexual assault to endure lasting emotional, physical, and psychological scars, such as depression, substance abuse issues, phobias, interpersonal relationship issues, and low self-esteem; and
WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is committed to shedding light in the darkest of corners, raising awareness whenever we have the opportunity, to prevent assaults and to increase support for the victims and survivors of sexual assault.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim April 27, 2022 as:
Denim Day
in Alaska, and ask that all Alaskans wear denim for the day to stand together against sexual assault. We must speak out against victim blaming, and help create a culture of respect, equality, and safety.
