Women’s advocate encourages mass participation in ‘Denim Day’ against sexual assault

By The Star Staff

Women’s Advocate Astrid Piñeiro Vázquez on Monday urged broad participation in the “Denim Day 2025” initiative this Wednesday, when citizens can raise their voices against sexual assault In a Puerto Rico that cries out for justice and equality.

“Denim Day,” known globally, invites all citizens to join by wearing denim (denim) and aqua, teal or purple colors, in an act of solidarity with the victims of sexual assault. The campaign defies silence, dismantles stigmas, and demands an end to the normalization of violence.

“Sexual assault is not just a crime, it is an atrocious violation of human dignity. As Puerto Ricans, we must be tireless in our support for the victims and in our fight for real change,” the women’s advocate said. “Every denim garment worn on April 30 sends a clear message: we are here, no more violence, no more silence.”

“This day is an opportunity to educate, to raise awareness and to empower those who have suffered in silence,” Piñeiro added. “Together, we can break the chains of fear and shame.”

The main call for participation is to dress with strength and solidarity by wearing denim and/or jeans along with significant colors such as aqua, teal or purple to show your support. Then, spread that collective support by posting photos with denim, using the hashtags #OPMConDenimPorEllas and #DenimDayPR. Inspire others to join in and multiply this message of resistance, the women’s advocate urged.

Among the various activities scheduled during the day, the Office of the Women’s Advocate (OPM by its initials in Spanish) team will be situated in front of the office’s building, distributing informational booklets on sexual assault, and then at 8:30 a.m., in coordination with the Puerto Rico Police, participants will form a human ribbon in teal color. At 9:30 a.m., a virtual workshop on sexual assault will be offered.

The OPM building will be lit in green starting this evening as a symbolic act of support for victims of sexual assault.