On Wednesday I attended Take Back The Night, part of C.A.R.E. Week here at Boston College. The foundation was created in order to raise awareness about rape, domestic violence, and other forms of sexual violence. Never having been to this event, I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but now I can confidently say that it changed my life. The hour began with terrifying statistics about the commonality of sexual violence affecting both men and women. If that wasn’t enough to shake you to your core, the rape survivor stories that followed were unrealistically heart wrenching.
I wanted to take this moment to thank and commend all three young ladies who stood up and told everyone their stories; I cannot even being to imagine the immense amount of courage it took for them to talk about what they’d been through. I don’t often cry in public, but these stories were so beautifully told and all ended with such hope that I could not help but shed some tears, and as I looked around, I could see that I was not alone.
The program also included a very touching pledge made by the men of Boston College vowing to never harm any girl, and to remember that, through this process, they are in turn protecting their own sisters, moms, friends, and girlfriends. After a good crying spout, I could not help the surge of pride that overcame me during the boys’ pledge. It was incredible to see the amount of male supporters who had come out to attend the event, and I found myself beaming.
The evening ended with the tradition of lighting up campus. Each attendee was given a glow stick to place in different areas around campus, areas that they were lighting up and taking back. The symbolism behind such a movement is unbelievably beautiful, and I’m really hopeful that everyone else in the audience took it as much to heart as I did.
For me, Take Back The Night was a rollercoaster of emotion. Though the numbers and stories of those affected by rape and violence left me feeling haunted, I know that this knowledge will only help me become smarter and more aware. I came out of the event feeling stronger and more empowered than ever. I’d recommend the program to everyone for the experience is definitely something I will remember forever.