On April 26, Culver City High School will observe Denim Day (initially created by the Peace Over Violence organization to highlight advocacy work for sexual violence, domestic violence, teen dating violence, intimate partner stalking, trauma-informed care, and more). This April also marks the 22nd anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
The California Senate adopted SR81 which recognizes April 26 as Denim Day in California, and Culver City Unified adopted the “Denim Day Proclamation” resolution No. 25, on April 23, 2019. Denim Day, April 26, will be celebrated at CCHS as the kick-off of a sexual harassment prevention and education campaign, that eventually will expand to a year-long awareness and education program during the 2023-2024 school year.
This year’s Denim Day at CCHS will feature Guest Speaker Leisle Bartley who is an Engagement Manager for the One Love Foundation. Bartley will be speaking to students, sharing ideas and resources, and engaging in interactive activities regarding empowering young people with the tools and resources they need to see the signs
of healthy and unhealthy relationships, and bring life-saving prevention education to their school community. This Denim Day program is being coordinated by the efforts of CCHS Administration, the CCHS Sexual Harassment Awareness Action Group, CCUSD’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Heather Moses/Frost staff.
Many of you may be wondering how this day and programming applies to your student if they are not a Culver City High School student. Research shows that students in elementary through middle school age groups are being exposed to violent behaviors, conversations, and social media which tend to have these behaviors exhibited. The effects of sexual harassment can be long-lasting and affect the victim’s mental health, and physical well-being. In the near future, CCUSD will be partnering with educators of sexual violence prevention using age-appropriate materials to present to our younger generation and also to foster healthy productive conversations at home.
If you would like to participate in the planning of next year’s Denim Week activities at CCUSD, the District would love to hear from you. Please email [email protected], subject line: Denim Week 23-24 SY.
CulverPride
