What is Jeans Day??
Jeans Day began at Rutgers University in 1974 as a way to promote equal (not special) rights for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender individuals. Since that time, Jeans Day has spread to other colleges and universities throughout the country. All students, faculty, staff, and administrators at Bridgewater State University are invited to wear jeans on Thursday, October 11, 2007 as a show of support for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students, faculty, and staff on campus. You don't have to be lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender to wear jeans that day - everyone can celebrate Jeans Day too!! Individuals who cannot wear jeans can come by the GLBTA Pride Center - Rm 006 Campus Center to get a denim patch to wear on October 11th.
most people, wearing jeans is a daily activity. We barely even think about
putting on a pair of jeans in the morning, and then head to work, class, or
going out with friends. But, for one day of the year, October 11, 2007, each of
us on campus has to make a conscious choice whether or not to wear a pair
of jeans. Jeans are a popular item of clothing and are seen EVERYWHERE. On
October 11th, people at BSU will make a CHOICE to wear jeans to show their
support for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender individuals. Everyday GLBT
individuals have to make a choice whether or not to come out to family, friends,
coworkers, or strangers. Some have to choose NOT to come out for fear of being
fired, ridiculed, harassed, hurt, or being disowned by their families and
Jeans Day means that all of us have to choose whether or not we support equal
rights for everyone. People who choose to wear jeans on Jeans Day do so for many
reasons. Some know friends, coworkers, or family members who are gay, lesbian,
bisexual, or transgender. Some wear jeans because they think it is wrong for
people to be harassed or discriminated against because of who they are. Some
wear jeans because they want their closeted friends and family members to feel
comfortable enough to come out to them. Finally, gay, lesbian, bisexual, and
transgender people may wear jeans because they are proud to be who they are!
You can pick up jean
patches to pin on if you forget to wear jeans or if you are dressed in
professional attire. Visit the GLBTA Pride Center to pick up your patch!
Faculty, staff, and administrators are encouraged to participate.