This week, I went to the 22nds
anniversary of Take Back The Night event. Even though it was the 22nd
anniversary of the event, Take Back The Night was a completely new and exciting
experience for me. It started at the big lawn of Loyola’s campus with guest
speakers and students giving us information about sexual assault and how to
stop it. Volunteers proceeded to hand out candles and light them. Then, we all
walked down St. Charles and Broadway to Tulane’s campus. On the walk, people
would shout chants against rape, and some cars would honk their horns in support
of the walk. Once at Tulane, everyone gathered in one of Tulane’s ballrooms where
there was an open mic to anyone who wanted to share any stories, experiences,
or poems.
During the opening speeches and the
walk, the mood was empowered and proud. We were a proud group of people on a
quest to spread the word to stop sexual assault and celebrate those who were no
longer victims. When we got to the ballroom, the mood changed to a more serious
and somber one. We’re not allowed to share any names, stories, or specifics,
but I can say that I was drastically taken aback by them. There was not a dry
eye in the house as some people sang, confessed, and overcame their past
situations. The open mic session left a lasting effect on me for hours after as
I contemplated the horrors of sexual assault. I’m so happy I went to Take Back
The Night because I feel more empowered to speak out against sexual assault and
stand up for those being abused by it.
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