Women’s Resource Center Supports Sexual Assault Survivors on Denim Day

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee students spent their school day at the warm and welcoming Women’s Resource Center, painting and decorating stones as well as pieces of denim in solidarity and support of victims and survivors of sexual violence.  

“One thing we always love to say is that the WRC is like the feminist living room of campus, we try to make it as cozy as possible for people to come in,” said WRC Assistant Director Mia Valenzuela.  

These activities are only a small part of what the WRC hosts for students each year. For Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Denim Day, staff members worked to promote events to help victims and survivors while also educating students and the surrounding communities.  

“The WRC is an intersectional feminist space where students can gather to learn about feminism, build community and be connected to campus or community resources,” Director Kacie Otto said in an email. “It’s a cozy space where you can check out a library book, get free menstrual hygiene products or safer sex supplies and attend feminist programs.”  

On Denim Day, people dress in denim to bring awareness toward victims and survivors of sexual assault and sexual violence. This takes place on April 24 each year during the month of April, which is also Sexual Assault Awareness Month.  

“It’s a really big day for visibility as a means of protest, and wearing denim sparks a conversation,” Valenzuela said. “The conversation starts demystifying sexual violence and shows what support and community looks like for survivors, it’s a big part of Denim Day.”  

Campus and community organizations were lined up and prepared to share support and resources with those in need of help during the Survivor Support and Wellness Fair that took place on Denim Day.  

During the fair, multiple organizations presented various interactive activities to students. The WRC provided resources and pieces of linen for students to decorate and display. A pop-up alcohol-free cocktail bar supporting coping without substances, which was curated by the UWM Student Health and Wellness Center (SHAW), was also offered to students.  

SHAW also offered resources ranging from 24/7 mental health counseling services to mindfulness workbooks and self-care strategies. Students were able to pick up these resources and referrals at the table.  

The WRC also promoted their victim advocacy resources and highlighted the available support from the UWM Police Department. Also featured on Demin Day was a yoga-centered sound bath as well as an opportunity for survivors to speak out, share and cope through their Survivor Voices event.  

“Now more than ever, we found it really important to make sure that Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Denim Day programming as a whole is robust and ready to support students,” Valenzuela said.  

The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24 hours a day and can be reached by phone at 1-800-656-4673. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is also available at all hours each day and can be reached by phone at 800-799-7233.