WHEREAS, Denim Day originated in April 1999 as a symbol of protest in response to an Italian high court decision to overturn a rape conviction because the victim was wearing tight denim pants; and

WHEREAS, Denim Day is intended to draw attention to the fact that rape and sexual assault remain a plague on society, and these violent crimes deeply impact the victims and survivors of assault as well as family members, significant others, coworkers, and health professionals; and

WHEREAS, no one has the right to force, threaten, or manipulate anyone into sexual activity and every Alaskan, regardless of age, race, culture, or status, deserves to live free from harm and the fear of sexual assault or abuse; and

WHEREAS, it is common for survivors of sexual assault to endure lasting emotional, physical, and psychological scars such as depression, struggles with substance abuse, phobias, interpersonal relationship issues, and low self-esteem; and

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska is committed to raising awareness to prevent assaults and to increase support for the victims and survivors of sexual assault.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim April 24, 2024 as:

Denim Day

in Alaska and ask that all Alaskans wear denim for the day to stand united against sexual assault. We must oppose victim-blaming and create a culture of respect, equality, and safety.