On Tuesday, October 23 the Wesleyan community is invited to rally at the steps of Olin at 7 p.m. for Take Back the Night. This event is an opportunity for the Wesleyan community to gather in support of survivors of sexual assault and for those survivors to share their stories in a safe space.
We will march from Olin Library to the CFA courtyard, where the first speak-out circle will be held. From the CFA, we will continue to Andrus field for the second circle. The candlelight vigil and final count-off will be held in front of North College. After the event, there will be informal debriefing sessions/discussions in Hewitt lounge, Butt B lounge, and the MPR at Usdan (in the basement). The discussion at Usdan is for female-identified persons only, in recognition of the fact that women are disproportionately affected by sexual violence. The other two discussions are open to anyone who would like to discuss the emotions and thoughts evoked by the event.
Many different organizations have made Take Back the Night possible this year. The Cardinal Sinners will perform at the rally on the Olin Steps, and Onomatopoeia will perform at the first speak-out circle. Eclectic, Womanist House, Psi U, Beta and DKE will be providing refreshments throughout the march. Volunteer crisis counselors from the Women and Families Center will be available throughout the event, and will be facilitating the debriefing sessions. The Peer Health Advocates have helped with preparation for the pre-forums, as well as with advertising.
The Clothesline Project will be up throughout the week of Take Back the Night. Small Forest Temple will run a self-defense workshop in the MPR on Sunday, October 28 at 5 p.m. For a complete listing of events or for more information, please go to http://www.wesleyan.edu/weswell/events/tbtn_october2007.html.
We take back the night to raise awareness about sexual assault on our campus and in our community. We take back the night to give voices to those who are silent. We take back the night in support of survivors, and in honor of their courage. We take back the night because everyone deserves to be safe. We will continue to march each year until there is no longer a reason to fear the night. Please join us.
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