HOULTON, Maine — The Maliseet Domestic and Sexual Violence Advocacy Center held several events through the month of April to promote sexual assault awareness and prevention.
On April 12, the group held a “Paint n Sip” awareness event that gave community members the opportunity to participate in painting a beautiful teal flower. Teal is the color of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. On April 23, the Maliseet Advocacy Center Staff hosted a community cookout which involved food, giveaways, and current public service announcements regarding sexual assault prevention.
The Maliseet Advocacy Staff also hosted its annual Denim Day luncheon for staff at The Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians on April 26. Denim Day started in 1999; the Italian Supreme Court overturned a rape conviction because the victim was wearing “very, very tight jeans” at the time of the assault. The justices stated that the victim must have helped the attacker remove her jeans, from which they inferred consent. People all around the world were outraged. Wearing jeans on the anniversary became an international symbol of protest against destructive attitudes about sexual violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and/or sexual violence, please reach out. The Maliseet Domestic and Sexual Violence Advocacy Center provides confidential 24/7 services. The group can be reached at 532-6401.
