April 19, 2024
Denim Day NL
The moment has arrived! Denim Day, that powerful international voice against sexual transgressive behavior, is now rolling out across Dutch soil! Just as outraged by that constant stream of reports surrounding transgressive behavior? So are we. Completely done with it!
Read moreThe core mission of Denim Day
1. Clarify what sexual boundary crossing really means. No excuses, no gray areas. Enough is enough!
2. Prove that together we can stop sexually transgressive behavior. It's up to all of us to show that we no longer accept it.
3. Show your connection in different ways: wear denim on Denim Day19 April 2024, be present at our event on April 19, or wear our unique Denim Day bracelet.
We at Denim Day NL say: enough! We no longer wait for endless studies or those weak excuses. Often the excuse is missing, or it comes from a PR angle. So what do we do? We take action ourselves! We are ready to stop transgressive behavior, and we want you, your friends, your network, everyone to join in!
Sign up now for the Newsletter so we can keep you up to date on the promotions and workshops we will be launching!
Sign up!
How do you participate?
Simple!
1. Wear denim on April 19. Why specifically denim? You can read about that here.
2. Come to our Denim Day event. Of course in your denim outfit! Curious about the program? Check it out here and sign up right away.
3. Share your support online. Do you decide to wear denim? Sign up and share a photo on your socials with the hashtags, for example:
- #DenimdayNL
- #DenimdayTowardsPhysicalBorder Crossing
- #Denimday19April2024
- #Denimday2024WearDenim
Denim Day 2024 in the Netherlands is more than a campaign, it is a call to action. It is a call for respect. It is a call for change. Join the fight and let's stop Sexual Transgression!
Examples of Sexual Transgression
Sexual transgressive behavior can include:
Sexual harassment
This may include unwelcome sexual comments, jokes, gestures or images. It also includes unwanted physical contact such as inappropriate touching, hugging or kissing.
Sexual violence
This can range from unwanted sexual contact (such as touching, caressing, groping) to sexual assault and rape.
Cybersexual harassment
This can include unwanted sexual messages or images via digital communication tools, as well as online stalking and revenge pornography.
Sexist behavior
This can include comments or actions that denigrate or stereotype someone based on their gender.
Each of these behaviors violates a person's right to personal safety, dignity and autonomy.
Why has Sexual Transgressive Behavior existed for so long?
Sexual transgressive behavior is deeply rooted in the structures of our society, and it has existed as long as human civilization. It can appear in many forms and is often reinforced by cultural norms, social structures and power dynamics.
Here are some reasons why it persists:
Power dynamics
In many places, in institutions and within relationships, there are power inequalities. Individuals with more power may abuse their position to manipulate or coerce others into unwanted sexual behavior.
Gender stereotypes and roles
Traditional gender roles and stereotypes have reinforced the idea that men should be dominant and aggressive, while women should be submissive and passive. These unequal expectations can lead to behaviors that violate the boundaries of others.
Silence and stigma
Victims of sexually transgressive behavior often face shame, fear of retribution, and the stigma associated with making their experiences public. This can lead to many cases of sexually transgressive behavior going unreported, leaving perpetrators unaccounted for.
Ignorance and lack of education
Not everyone fully understands what sexual transgressive behavior means, how to recognize it, or how to deal with it. Lack of education about consent and healthy sexuality can contribute to the continued presence of these behaviors.
It is important to understand that while these factors may explain the existence of sexually transgressive behavior, they do not justify it. Every individual has the right to respect for his or her bodily integrity, and it is up to all of us to work to change the cultures, systems and beliefs that perpetuate this type of behavior.
How come this has been kept quiet for so long?
The fact that sexual transgressive behavior has long gone unaddressed is due to several factors that are complex and deeply embedded in society:
- Shame and stigma: Many who have experienced sexually transgressive behavior feel shame or guilt. Society often tends to blame the victim, and this can make victims feel ashamed and keep the experiences to themselves.
- Fear of retaliation: Victims may fear retaliation by the perpetrator, especially if the perpetrator is a person of power or influence.
- Denial and minimization: Many people find it difficult to accept that sexually transgressive behavior can occur within their community, family or circle of friends. This leads to denial and minimization of the problem.
- Cultural and social norms: In some cultures and communities, sexually transgressive behavior is seen as normal or acceptable behavior. As a result, victims often feel isolated and without support if they choose to talk about it.
- Lack of support and resources: In many cases, victims lack the necessary support and resources to seek help or report the situation.
Breaking these barriers is essential to breaking the silence around sexually transgressive behavior. That starts with creating safe environments where victims feel supported and heard, and challenging cultural and social norms that normalize or tolerate such behavior.