Wear jeans with a purpose! Surveys around the world have shown gender-based violence has spiked during the pandemic, and our local beauty businesses are joining together to stand up and speak out.

Denim Day is part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and was born in response to a court ruling two decades ago in which a rape conviction was overturned due to the fact the victim had been wearing tight jeans. Women joined together to wear jeans in solidarity with the victim, and since then Denim Day has developed into a day for action and advocacy.

Salons and beauty parlors have long been known as spaces for women to share, confide in and support one another. Our local beauty businesses are wearing denim this April as a sign that they are safe spaces, too:

1. Fierce Spa Nail Salon
2. Harlem Cutz East
3. Lashout Lashes
4. Omo Sade Skincare
5. Sathi Nails & Spa
6. Uplift Spa

Looking for info? Get resources to help you, or a loved one experiencing dating, domestic or gender-based violence. Call NYC’s 24/7 hotline for immediate safety planning, shelter assistance, and other resources:

Domestic violence: 1-800-621-4673 (HOPE); TTY 1-866-604-5350.

Sexual assault: 212-227-3000.

In an emergency, always call 911.