UNF Women’s Center will ‘Take Back the Night’ for Domestic Violence Awareness Month
The University of North Florida Women’s Center annually hosts the Take Back the Night March and Candlelight Vigil in October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year’s event on Wednesday, Oct. 5, includes an awareness and resource fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during Market Days in Osprey Plaza and a cross campus march beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Osprey Crossings Plaza and ending at 8 p.m. in Osprey Plaza with a survivor speak out and candlelight vigil.
“Take Back the Night” brings people together to stand in unity against interpersonal violence and abuse in their community. A cross-campus march represents the solidarity of women and men who are not afraid to stand up and speak out against violence. A candle-lighting ceremony honors victims and survivors of violence, and survivors are given the opportunity to share their stories.
The first Take Back the Night event in the U.S took place in October 1975, when Philadelphia residents rallied after the murder of microbiologist Susan Alexander Speeth, who was stabbed by a stranger a block from her home while walking alone. Historically, women have felt the anxiety of walking alone at night with fear of being harmed and that is why Take Back the Night was organized.
At UNF, the Victim Advocacy Program serves as a resource and support service for anyone in the University community who has been a victim of actual or threatened violence. The services offered range from emotional support to assistance navigating the criminal justice system. All members of the UNF community can utilize the 24-hour crisis helpline by calling (904) 620-1010. Learn more about UNF’s Victim Advocacy Program.