Textiles pupils from Jersey College for Girls have used their creative skills to transform old pieces of denim as part of an international movement in support of survivors of sexual violence.

As part of Jersey Action Against Rape’s ‘Denim Day’ campaign, students from Years 7 and 10 designed and created a range of recycled fashion items incorporating meaningful messages and symbols in support of the campaign.

Pictured: Chloe (15) wears a skirt that reads “Even my dog understands when I say no!” (ROB CURRIE)

The project culminated in a dedicated fashion show featuring the pieces, which will now be displayed at the YES Project.

Denim Day is a global movement that began after a controversial 1999 Italian court ruling overturned a rape conviction because the victim had been wearing tight jeans.

This judgment sparked outrage and led to protests around the world – with denim becoming a symbol of resistance against victim-blaming and the idea that clothing can ever imply consent.

It comes after dozens of denim-clad islanders marched through St Helier in solidarity with sexual abuse survivors and to call for systemic change.

The march began at West Centre and continued through town with banners, placards, and a marching band before concluding at the Royal Square, where speeches were delivered.

One of those who took the microphone was Suzannah Mahe, who, just six months ago, watched her abuser be sentenced to 15 years in prison for rape, sexual assault and assault.

Since waiving her anonymity last year, she’s become an advocate against sexual and domestic violence.

Pictured: Kaila (15) models a dress made using a coffee bean sack (ROB CURRIE)

All the denim used in JCG’s project was donated by students, staff, and members of the wider school community.

Bianca Padidar, head of textiles, said the charity initiative allowed the students to “turn a design project into a powerful statement”.

She said: “At JCG, we believe in using creativity for a cause, and the Denim Day campaign aligned perfectly with our values of compassion, community, and empowerment.”

The textiles students were also supported by the college’s textile technician Margarida Olivier.

Mrs Padidar added: “By taking part, we hoped to raise awareness about sexual violence and show our solidarity with survivors.

“Partnering with Jersey Action Against Rape allowed us to turn a design project into a powerful statement, one that not only expresses our students’ talents but also supports a crucial message.”

GALLERY…

Sylvie (12) (ROB CURRIE)
Zahara (11) and Sofia (12) (ROB CURRIE)
Image of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a supreme court justice in the USA (ROB CURRIE)
Rosie (12) (ROB CURRIE)
Annabelle (15) (ROB CURRIE)

SUPPORT…

Jersey Domestic and Sexual Abuse Support (JDAS) offer specialist support and guidance in relation to domestic or sexual abuse incidents. Support is provided before, during and after any police investigation or court hearing. It is also available when police are not involved. Call: 01534 880505 or email JDAS@gov.je.

The SARC at Dewberry House provide expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. The Centre comprises of a team of experts with a wealth of knowledge and experience in advising, supporting and treating anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted. Call: 01534 888222. 

Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Tel: 01534 482801. 

FREEDA (Freedom from Domestic Abuse) offer a 24-hour helpline, access to safe accommodation as well as help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Tel: 0800 7356836. 

Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Tel: 0800 7351612.