By Jaymie Depew
The Women’s Center
The Women’s Center will once again host events across Marquette and Alger counties in April, including our Denim Day walk, in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
We currently have three “Coffee with an Advocate” events scheduled in Munising. These casual gatherings offer a welcoming space to learn about the services the Women’s Center provides.
Whether you work for an organization interested in partnering, serve in law enforcement or know someone who may benefit from support, we encourage anyone to stop by and connect with our staff. This year, we’re grateful to team up with the following places during these dates:
April 2, 10 a.m. to noon, Munising School Public Library
April 14, 10 a.m. to noon, Gallery Coffee Co.
April 22, noon to 2 p.m., Falling Rock Cafe and Bookstore
We also invite everyone to join us for our second annual Denim Day walk in Marquette on April 17 as we raise our voices in solidarity with survivors and demonstrate our community’s commitment to safety, support and prevention. Together we will stand against sexual violence, raise awareness and affirm that perpetrators must be held accountable. You’re welcome to bring a sign, wear denim or just walk along with us.
The walk will begin at Harlow Park at 4 p.m. and end at the Marquette Commons. Last year’s turnout was incredible, and we hope to see even more of you this year.
What is Denim Day?
You may be wondering why denim has become a symbol in the movement to end sexual assault. The story goes back to Italy in the 1990s, when an 18‑year‑old woman was raped by her 45‑year‑old driving instructor during her first lesson.
After driving her to a secluded area, he forced her out of the car and assaulted her. Although he was initially convicted, he later appealed the charges, arguing that the assault was consensual because the woman was wearing “tight jeans,” which meant she must have helped him remove them.
The Italian Supreme Court regrettably overturned the conviction, leading to public outrage, with women in the Italian Parliament protesting by wearing jeans on the steps of the Supreme Court the following day. Their demonstration gained international attention, with the first official Denim Day march in the United States taking place in April 1999.
If businesses and organizations throughout Alger County would like to take part in Denim Day or SAAM, we welcome you to join us in Marquette on April 17 for the Denim Day walk, share information about SAAM/Denim Day with your colleagues and employees, take a photo of your team wearing their favorite denim and share on social media (be sure to tag the Women’s Center) and/or consider donating to support sexual assault survivors.
By participating, you’re taking a clear stand against sexual violence and showing solidarity with survivors. With your help, we can strengthen our community’s commitment to safety, accountability and meaningful change.
For more information about how to get involved, please email algerwc@wcmqt.org.