On Wednesday, April 24 Union College participated in an annual demonstration to raise awareness for sexual assault for Denim Day.

Denim Day originated from an Italian court case regarding an alleged rape that was overturned because the girl’s jeans were “too tight,” so she must have helped remove them and therefore could not be raped. In protest, people around the world wear denim on the anniversary of this rulting.

Members of the campus supported this cause by wearing denim. Additionally, many participated in a march through campus. At the time of the walk, many tours were taking place and prospective students were given an opportunity to view on-campus activism and how students use their voices at Union.

Following the walk around the Nott Memorial, there was a discussion in Old Chapel lead by Professor Feffer of the History Department. There was one speaker who explained Denim Day’s history and the party culture on campus. After the speaker, there were small discussions between faculty and staff about sexual assault awareness.

The Women’s Union was at the forefront of organizing the walk, discussion and provided the lunch to those who attended the talk.

People participated in this march both as individuals and as part of other organizations on campus. Three sororities on campus were able to wear denim and march to show their support.

Junior Recruitment Chair of Sigma Delta Tau Jojo Sosa ’21 participated in the march as part of the sorority’s philanthropy, Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA). Coupled with her PCAA shirt, Sosa walked from Reamer to Old Chapel in a full denim suit.

“I think events like these are really important for everyone on campus to participate in. I especially think it’s awesome when multiple organizations on campus get involved and show their support,” Sosa said.. “I think it really strengthens Union’s sense of community and enthusiasm about raising awareness,” she added.

Likewise, member of newly established sorority, Delta Phi Epsilon Alex Lazar ’21 also was excited to participate in Denim Day. “I was really happy to be a part of such an important movement,” Lazar exclaimed. “It was really cool to see how so many different organizations on campus got involved in this day and showed support.”

Marisa Peters ’20, member of Gamma Phi Beta, also participated in the march. After taking several gender studies classes, Peters was excited to support this cause. When asked what word she would use to describe the day and the event, Peters said, “Progress…I liked what Professor Feffer had to say at the end of the march to recognize its significance, the solidarity of people and how the size and diversity has increased and it makes me a bit more optimistic about the future.”

The Women’s Union will host their next event, Take Back the Night, in May in order to continue to raise awareness about sexual assault on campus.