UNF Victim Advocacy Program will ‘Take Back the Night’ for Domestic Violence Awareness Month
The University of North Florida Victim Advocacy Program annually hosts the Take Back the Night March and Candlelight Vigil during Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. This year’s event on Wednesday, Oct. 4, includes an awareness and resource fair beginning at 4:30 p.m. in Peace Plaza, from there a cross campus march will begin at 6 p.m. at Peace Plaza and move to Osprey Plaza at 6:30 p.m. for speakers, performers, 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.
Take Back the Night is the oldest worldwide movement to stand against sexual violence in all forms. 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.
At UNF, the Victim Advocacy Program and Dean of Students Office serve as resources and support services 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.