International Denim Day brings awareness to sexual assault survivors

International Denim Day 2023 On Wednesday, April 26th, Stepping Stones, Inc. will be participating in the celebration of International Denim Day. Stepping Stones staff will be concentrating their efforts on raising more public awareness surrounding the experiences of sexual assault survivors and their stories. Jeans will be worn to show solidarity with individuals who have experienced sexual assault and to reject the practice of blaming victims in such circumstances. Why is it so important for the general public to understand the weight that survivors of sexual assault are carrying? In 2021, the Wisconsin Department of Justice said that 5,261 cases of sex crimes were reported by Wisconsites of all races and genders. What’s worse, is that the number of non-consensual sex crimes have been on the rise since the pandemic. The Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault (WCASA) estimates about 30% of all sexual assault cases go unreported. It is a popular misconception that fraudulent reports and accusations are regularly made. Sadly, the fear of not being believed is one of the contributing factors to survivors of sexual assault not reporting their experience to law enforcement.  Our survivors need our help so that they can feel safe going to the proper authorities, reporting these crimes and getting justice for themselves. If survivors don't feel like they're being heard, they might think that their experiences don't matter to the people around them, and they might decide not to get help or therapy because of this. Unheard Survivors may face a lifetime of struggling with their self-worth, confidence, and purpose within the community. We can take action together! If you want to help make our community a safer place for everyone, stop by the Stepping Stones, Inc. booth at the Medford County Market on Wednesday, April 26 from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Three quilts will be given away in a cash raffle. Visitors will also have a chance to win a succulent plant in exchange for sharing their thoughts via a short survey. Cash donations will also be accepted and will have a direct effect on the well-being of Taylor County survivors.