Western Courier

Issue date: 10/10/07 Section: News

Media Credit: File Photo "Take Back the Night," which will take place Thursday, helps to raise awareness of domestic violence.

Western Illinois University's 18th annual "Take Back the Night" march and rally, which raises awareness of and remembers victims and survivors of domestic violence, is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 11 with the theme "Reaching Out of the Darkness and into the Light."

According to Women's Center graduate assistant and "Take Back the Night" planning committee chair Rebecca Groves, the theme and logo for the march and rally differ from year to year but the main idea is the same as in previous years. She also said the committee expects a good turnout.

"We have a really positive response from Greek organizations as well as other organizations," Groves said.

She added that the Student Government Association and other organizations have contributed to the success of "Take Back the Night."

Groves added that awareness of domestic violence is important because it empowers those affected by it.

"(Domestic violence) is a terrible, horrible thing that no one should have to go through," she said. "It's not the victim's fault; we need to empower the affected. It's not just a 'women's' issue; it's an 'everyone' issue."

According to senior communication major and "Take Back the Night" committee member Rachel Rivera, there will be several speakers who have had experiences with domestic abuse, including featured speaker Regina Davis-Sowers, assistant professor in sociology and anthropology.

"A lot of the people who are speaking are past (domestic abuse) survivors," Rivera added.

"Take Back the Night" will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Sherman Hall circle. There will be informational displays from local offices that aid in violence prevention as well as a book signing by Western student Erin McNamee, who was once a victim of domestic violence. Glow sticks, T-shirts and luminaries to honor victims or survivors of domestic violence will also be available for purchase.

"You don't have to put (the victim's) whole name (on the luminaries)," Groves said. "It's a very touchy subject matter and not everybody wants to be recognized."The rally begins at 7 p.m. with proclamation readings by Western President Al Goldfarb, Macomb Mayor Mick Wisslead and various "Take Back the Night" committee members.

The march begins at 7:30 p.m. and finishes at Chandler Park, where more people will speak at 8 p.m. For more information, contact the Women's Center at 309/298-2242.

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