“Blessed are the cracked for they let the light in.”
On Wednesday, April 20th, 2016 I attended my first Take Back The Night in support of a friend who asked me to go. For those who don’t know what Take Back The Night is, it is an international event and non-profit organization with the mission of ending sexual, relationship, and domestic violence in all forms; hundreds of events are held in over 30 countries annually.
I was expecting an emotional experience and to be honest I was very nervous to hear the testimonials of the brave men and women who would choose to speak their truth. What I was not expecting was to see so many familiar faces, on the podium and in the audience, and I was not expecting to feel so relieved. I was relieved from my own, selfish fear of the many stories of sexual assault, I was relieved for the students who were able to tell their stories and watch them continue to heal in the company of their peers, and I was relieved by the acceptance of the supportive audience.
I was reminded of the strength of the CUA community; we a strengthened through struggle and we are strengthened by each other. I walked into the Pryz expecting a sad and depressing night when in reality I received a night filled with struggle, acceptance, hope, and love.