College Students Take Back the Night

Students across the nation are commemorating Sexual Assault Awareness Month with major events, rallies, and Take Back the Night events. Take Back the Night (TBTN) is a rally held internationally aimed at ending violence against women. The event also offers support to victims and survivors of rape, sexual assault, and child abuse. “[Take Back the Night] has been a vital part of my recovery from sexual assault,” said a Penn State student, according to The Digital Collegian. Women and men are encouraged to take advantage of Take Back the Night to assist in their healing process, Digital Collegian reports.

James Madison University in Virginia recently held their seventh annual TBTN along with a candlelight vigil with a student march through campus, “breaking the silence and making their voices heard,” according to the JMU Women’s Resource Center. JMU students also participated in the Clothesline Project, a display of t-shirts made by the victims and survivors of violence. Dartmouth College used a Take Back the Night March to bring together women, men, and children in the campus and community “to take a stand against violence and make the night safe for everyone,” according to Dartmouth College, located in New Hampshire.

Many community groups are also planning events for National Sexual Assault Awareness Month and urging students and community members to get involved in the activities. The DC Rape Crisis Center is holding events and workshops throughout the month of April aimed at empowering women and educating the community. A Take Back the Night March and Rally will be held on April 26 in Washington D.C.

Media Resources: Dartmouth College press release 3/22/03; JMU Women’s Resource Center 4/2/03; The Digital Collegian 4/18/02; D.C. Rape Crisis Center 4/2003

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