Photo By Master Sgt. Jeffrey Grossi | Steel Airmen assigned to the 911th Airlift Wing, join for a group photo in support of...... read more read more
On April 24, Steel Airmen of the 911th Airlift Wing joined the global movement of Denim Day, swapping out their Operational Camouflage Uniform for denim jeans, demonstrating solidarity in the fight against sexual assault at Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station and around the world.
Since 1999, Peace Over Violence has spearheaded Denim Day, offering a poignant opportunity to show support for survivors and challenge harmful attitudes surrounding sexual violence. The campaign, held on a Wednesday in April as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, was born in response to a ruling by the Italian Supreme Court. In that case, a rape conviction was overturned based on the belief that the victim's tight jeans ultimately implied consent, sparking outrage and activism. The following day, women in the Italian Parliament donned denim in solidarity with the victim, marking the genesis of the Denim Day campaign.
The 911th Airlift Wing recognizes Denim Day's significance. Known for its Steel Airmen and commitment to community support, the base rallied behind the cause, donning denim attire to challenge misconceptions surrounding sexual violence.
In line with the Department of the Air Force, the 911th Airlift Wing utilizes various offices and programs for victim advocacy such as the Steel Airman Support Team, Chaplain Corps, The Family Advocacy Program, and the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office which includes the Catch A Serial Offender (CATCH) Program.
Airmen who have experienced a sexual assault are able to submit restricted or unrestricted reports said Johnna Kim, 911th AW Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Victim Advocate. Restricted Reporting enables sexual assault victims to confidentially disclose the assault to specified individuals (Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC), SAPR victims Advocate, and healthcare personnel), and receive medical treatment, including emergency care, counseling, and assignment of an advocate, without triggering an investigation. This option is intended to remove barriers to medical care and support while giving the victim additional time and increased control over the release of their personal information. Further, it also empowers the victim to make an informed decision about participating in the criminal process.
Unrestricted Reports activate victim support services and accountability process with notification to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations or the appropriate Military Criminal Investigative Organization and the victim’s command. This option includes support services for medical treatment, counseling, and advocacy, and additional options for military and/or civilian protection orders or expedited transfers.
For Steel Airmen looking to file a report, reach out to the SAPR office at 412-474-8834 or visit the DoD Safe Helpline at: https://www.safehelpline.org/ or by calling 877-995-5247.
| Date Taken: | 04.19.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 04.24.2024 12:02 |
| Story ID: | 468972 |
| Location: | PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIR RESERVE STATION, PA, US |
| Hometown: | PITTSBURGH, PA, US |
| Web Views: | 46 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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