U.S. Attorney of Southern WV's Office Participates in Denim Day - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

U.S. Attorney of Southern WV's Office Participates in National Denim Day

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By Douglas Fritz - email
CHARLESTON, W.Va. -

United States Attorney Booth Goodwin announced on Thursday that employees from the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of West Virginia wore denim in support of National Denim Day.

National Denim Day, April 25, is observed nationally to raise education and awareness against sexual violence.  

"The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of West Virginia is pleased to join in support of such a significant and worthwhile awareness event," said Goodwin. "Keeping our citizens and communities safe from all forms of crime and violence is a leading priority that our office strives to uphold each day.  I am hopeful that this opportunity will not only be used to increase awareness, but also encourage more citizens take a stand against sexual violence."    

The United States Attorney's Offices Denim Day recognition was held in coordination with the Rape Education, Advocacy, Counseling, and Healing (REACH) Family Counseling Connection's outreach efforts.  REACH provides a host of services to individuals such as: 24-hour Rape Crisis Hotline (304-340-3676)  and Emergency Room Accompaniment; follow-up support counseling and advocacy services; support throughout the criminal justice process; as well as education, professional training and volunteer programs.   

Denim Day's history is traced back to 1999, when the Italian High Court overturned a rape conviction because the victim was wearing tight jeans at the time of the assault.  The justices stated at the time that the victim must have helped her attacker remove her jeans, from which they inferred consent.  The ruling outraged people around the world.  Wearing jeans on this day became a symbol of support to survivors and a means to raise awareness about sexual violence.  

The month of April is also observed as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.