Wearing a Statement: Denim Day and Sexual Assault Awareness Month
By John Archiquette, Public Affairs Specialist
Every April, a simple wardrobe choice carries profound meaning. Across the country, people wear denim on Denim Day — held this year on Wednesday, April 23 — as a visible act of solidarity with survivors of sexual assault.
Every April, a simple wardrobe choice carries profound meaning. Across the country, people wear denim on Denim Day — held this year on Wednesday, April 23 — as a visible act of solidarity with survivors of sexual assault. At the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS), that solidarity goes far beyond clothing.
To commemorate this annual event, VASNHS Military sexual trauma (MST) program has created a display of mannequins wearing different common outfits, along with stories of sexual assault victims.
“This display helps us to visually talk about and end the myth,” said Dr. Nicole Anders, MST program coordinator. “What you were wearing, what you were doing, or who you are have never been an invitation for violence. The fault is never yours.”
The Story Behind the Denim
Denim Day was born from a deeply troubling moment in legal history. In 1990s Italy, a rape conviction was overturned by the country’s highest court on the grounds that the victim’s jeans were too tight to remove without her cooperation — implying consent. Women in the Italian Parliament showed up to work the next day wearing jeans in protest. The movement spread globally, and today Denim Day stands as one of the most recognized awareness efforts in the fight against sexual violence.
The message is simple but powerful: there is no excuse and never an invitation to abuse.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April is also Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a national observance dedicated to educating communities, supporting survivors, and challenging the cultures that allow sexual violence to persist. This year’s theme emphasizes that prevention is possible, and that every one of us has a role to play.
For the veteran community, SAAM carries particular weight. Military sexual trauma affects veterans across all branches, genders, and generations, often leaving wounds that are invisible but lasting.
VASNHS and Military Sexual Trauma Care
At VASNHS, Veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma are not alone. The facility’s Military Sexual Trauma program provides free, confidential care to any Veteran who experienced sexual assault or sexual harassment during their military service, regardless of when it occurred, whether it was reported, or what their discharge status is.
VASNHS offers MST-related services including individual therapy, group counseling, psychiatric care, and coordination with other VA support services.
You Are Not Alone
Healing is not linear, and reaching out takes courage. If you or a veteran you know has experienced military sexual trauma, VASNHS is here with trained professionals who understand the unique experiences of those who have served.
This April, wear your denim with purpose. Listen without judgment. And know that at VASNHS, every survivor is seen, believed, and supported.