Del Mar College community turned out to support sexual violence survivors during Denim Day observance on April 29

Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr.

Denim Day, observed each April during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of challenging harmful myths surrounding sexual violence. The movement began after an Italian Supreme Court ruling overturned a rape conviction based on the survivor’s clothing, sparking a global campaign to combat victim-blaming. Today, wearing denim symbolizes support for survivors and a commitment to advocacy.

Del Mar College held its annual Denim Day event on April 29 in the outdoor breezeway between the White Library and the Music Building B on the Heritage Campus. The observance brought students, faculty and staff together in support of survivors who have experienced sexual violence while raising awareness and promoting access to resources.

Shakira Barnes, Counselor II with the Counseling Center at DMC, says attendees saw decorated jeans displayed with messages of encouragement while blank jeans and art supplies will be available for participants to create their own messages supporting survivors. The space also featured posters, photo opportunities with large DMC letters, and a visit from the college mascot, Valdar. Students and community members were encouraged to wear denim with purpose as part of the observance.

“Denim Day is important to the Del Mar College community because it breaks the stigma around sexual violence, challenges victim-blaming myths and shows solidarity with survivors,” Barnes said. “It reminds students they are not alone and connects them with meaningful support.”

Barnes says local data underscores the importance of continued awareness efforts. According to recent Corpus Christi Police Department statistics featured in a KRIS TV 6 News report, there were 165 reported sexual assaults in 2024, following 176 in 2023 and 175 in 2022. Over the past five years, more than 1,200 rape offenses have been recorded in the area with a significantly smaller number of cases resulting in clearance. These figures highlight the ongoing need for education, prevention and survivor support services within the community.

Several campus and community organizations set up information tables as part of the college’s Denim Day observance. The Purple Door domestic violence shelter provided information about its services and resources, and the American Association of University Women student organization distributed water, coloring pages, crayons and ribbons to encourage participation and support.

Also, the college’s Counseling Center offered information about free and confidential services available to students, faculty and staff, which includes counseling sessions, consultations and referrals to local support networks. The DMC Title IX Office provides reporting options for those experiencing discrimination, harassment or sexual misconduct.

Denim Day at Del Mar College relaunched in 2017 as an opportunity to connect the global movement for sexual assault awareness with our local campus community, according to Barnes. What began as a small initiative among faculty and staff soon expanded into a full campus-wide event the next year.