Take Back the Night is an annual event that is held to advocate the end of sexual and domestic violence. This event has been done for 30 years now and symbolizes a safe space for all.
This October, Take Back the Night will be held during Turn off the Violence Week to celebrate the end of survivors of sexual assault and educate people about the impact of domestic violence. It is a chilling, sad reality that college-age adults are at high risk for sexual violence. Aside from this, approximately 1 in 5 female students, 24% of trans students and 1 in 20 male students are victimized while living on or near campus at a four-year college. Some of the assaults even go unreported. The sexual violence that occurs is never the victim’s fault. With the current political climate, it is important to give a voice to the survivors of sexual violence and give everyone a safe space to learn about consent as well. It is important to have dialogues to prevent sexual violence and be an ally.
Related: 3 Ways to Support Sexual Assault Survivors On Campus
Take Back the Night will consist of a number of activities like narrative readings, a poetry station, a self-care station, and people will be able to write love letters to survivors.
The narrative reading portion of the evening will be held in an open mic style or students can sign up through email at wgst@gmu.edu to share their stories. The crowd will get to hear about survivors’ stories and experiences with sexual violence through the reading of poetry and stories.
The poetry station will consist of sharing positive words that will also be displayed at the station.
The self-care station is where students will be able to make dream pillows to promote restful sleep. There will also be an Affirmations Connect 4 Game to keep students engaged. Students organizations like the Student Support and Advocacy Center and Student Government will be present to answer any questions, share resources and offer support for the event.
The event will conclude with a 30-minute march, which will consist of chanting while students walk to affirm their presence.
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The event will be held on Tuesday, October 1st at the Rogers and Whitetop Courtyard. It will begin at 7pm and will end at 10pm. Students are highly encouraged to partake in this initiative and be an ally to support their fellow peers and help end sexual violence.
The Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC) on campus is a great resource for topics like sexual and interpersonal violence and sexual health information. They are located in the Student Union Building I, Suite 3200 and can be reached at 703-993-3686. If you or someone you know is in need of resources and support regarding any sexual and interpersonal violence please call 703-993-3686 to schedule an appointment. The SSAC is a confidential resource for Sexual and Interpersonal Violence.