Take Back the Night

Take Back the Night is an event to educate and create awareness of domestic and sexual violence against women.  Being a feminist, I felt the need to support this event by attending. I also took this event as a time to educate a friend, who was always skeptical of the phrase feminist. After Wednesday night, I am sure her thoughts changed.

The event started with speeches about where to get help when needed and skits were performed. After these activities, anyone was welcomed to take advance of the safe space provided to tell their story. The stories were all moving and touching and made me realized that this is why I am so dedicated to Women’s Studies and being a feminist. The complete atmosphere of the room was something so welcoming and understanding. I felt a part of something bigger than I realized. A group of men and women standing together to acknowledge these dangers that have affected so many people and are planning to do something to better the world we live in.

After attending this event with my friend who was unfamiliar to actual definition of feminism, I was curious to her thoughts. My friend was shocked at how many people she recognized from her classes that spoke out. She explained how you would never guess that something this traumatic has ever happened to them. I explained to her that feminism is about hating men like everyone thinks; it’s about fighting for rights that matter for women and men. It’s protecting them. It’s about being part of something that has some much more.

I want to say thanks to everyone that found the courage to speak. Your courage has inspired this event and to allow others to find the bravery to speak out themselves. Your courage is leading to better situations in the future.