APRIL IS SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH (SAAM)

SAAM is a campaign to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it. “I Ask” is the campaign theme. It champions the message that asking for consent is a healthy, normal, and necessary part of everyday interactions. Each year during the month of April, state, territory, tribal and community-based organizations, rape crisis centers, government agencies, businesses, campuses and individuals plan events and activities. These events are meant to highlight sexual violence as a public health, human rights and social justice issue — and, likewise, reinforce the need for prevention efforts.

Denim Day

The SAAM Day of Action provides a day to focus awareness on sexual violence prevention. It is nationally recognized in the United States and observed annually as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The focus is most recognized as Denim Day, a movement born of tragedy:

In 1998, an Italian court ruled that a woman could not have been raped because her jeans were “very, very tight.” Consequently. the court said the sex must have been consensual as she would have needed to aid in their removal. The ruling outraged women in Italy and worldwide. As a result, it sparked a movement “In her Jeans,” whereby the denim pants became a symbol for victims and advocates.

MANITOWOC EVENTS FOR SAAM

Decorate Jeans at InCourage

InCourage in Manitowoc, WI (http://incouragewi.org/) would like to invite members of the community to decorate a pair of jeans in honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault and you would like to decorate a pair of jeans, please call 920-684-4661 or email incourage@incouragewi.org. Their office is at 300 E Reed Ave, Manitowoc. (It would be very helpful if you bring in your own pair of jeans.)

 Create Artwork to Bring Awareness

Furthermore, they are asking members of the public to craft artwork in honor of SAAM to be displayed around Manitowoc County to help bring awareness to this issue. You can call or email at the contacts above if you are interested.