Take Back The Night is an event that provides a platform for people of different ages, backgrounds, sexes, etc. to share their stories pertaining to sexual assault and violence. The event commences with several speakers who have prepared speeches to share with the participating group. It is followed by a candle lighting ceremony, and then a Speak Out, where others can share their stories with sexual abuse and violence in a safe and judgment-free setting.
The goal of the event, as stated on the website of the foundation is, “To create safe communities and respectful relationships through awareness events and initiatives. We seek to end sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual abuse, and all other forms of sexual violence.”

The DUB is having difficulty answering the question of what it is exactly, not because the DUB doesn’t know what Take Back The Night is, but because the DUB does knows what Take Back the Night is. For those who have participated in the event, Take Back The Night elicits an intense personal reaction that so deeply permeates our outer appearances and expectations that it becomes an idea that intertwines with our very being. It changes the way we view ourselves and the rest of the world. The event fosters relationships and perspectives between those who attend and initiates a community on campus of smiling faces and strength in unity.

As stated by the Take Back the Night website:

• At least one out of every three women worldwide has been the victim of sexual or domestic violence.
• As many as 1 in 6 men are also believed to be the victim of sexual or domestic violence in their lifetime.
• Of these crimes, less than 50% are reported to the police. It’s time to make a change.

Take Back The Night facilitates change because it attributes a voice and a face to the statistics. Numbers are one thing, but sentiments and stories coming from the strangers, friends or acquaintances you see hauling across the quad to get to class are something dramatically different. Not only does the event raise awareness, but also promotes unity and strength to accelerate further change, and bravery to combat the implications of sexual assault.

Help us shatter the silence and stop the violence! Please join us Tuesday, October 21, at 7:00 in Sykes Formal Lounge for this fall’s Take Back The Night!

DUB Love