On April 29, 2026, the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and believing survivors of sexual assault and violence by participating in Demin Day 2026.

Dr. Duardo was a guest speaker at the Los Angeles Denim Day solidarity press conference and rally hosted by the sexual and domestic violence prevention nonprofit organization, Peace Over Violence (POV). In attendance were groups of survivors and supporters of survivors. Among the guest speakers were POV founder, Patti Giggins, and various L.A. City Councilmembers.

“It’s on all of us, the education community in L.A. County and beyond, to support and teach age-appropriate awareness starting in TK so students know about their bodies, know when to speak up and know they can ask for help,” said Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. “We want to send a very clear and strong message: sexual violence has no place anywhere, but especially not in our school communities in L.A. County.”

The Los Angeles Denim Day event united community leaders, advocates and supporters at L.A. City Hall South Lawn in a collective show of solidarity with survivors of sexual violence. Hosted by POV, the event encouraged participants to wear their denim, transforming a simple fashion statement into a powerful message for social change. Attendees heard survivor stories, accessed community resources, participated in interactive activities, enjoyed music and engaged with informational outreach as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This gathering was one of many worldwide events dedicated to supporting survivors and raising awareness about sexual assault.

Across LACOE offices and sites throughout L.A. County, staff came together to wear denim as a visible sign of their commitment to survivors. With heartfelt messages, photos and videos, employees shared how they stand as advocates and safe allies, ensuring that survivors know they have supportive people in their workplace. Their collective actions transformed everyday spaces into zones of hope and reassurance, reinforcing the message that everyone deserves a safe and welcoming environment, inside and outside the classroom.

Check out LACOE’s Denim Day participation on social media: Denim Day 2026