TAKE BACK THE NIGHT EVENT – Throughout its history, “Take Back the Night” has motivated both women and men to confront a myriad of issues, including rape, sexual violence, domestic violence, and violence against women and children.
The purpose for “Take Back the Night” is the assertion that human beings have the right to be free from violence, the right to be heard, and the right to walk in their community free from fear of sexual violence.
Rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse, and domestic violence are often labeled “crimes of silence” because of lower reporting rates and social discomfort with their public discussion.
On April 24 those crimes will not be left unheard. The University of Nevada student group VOX, Voices for Planned Parenthood, will host a “Take Back the Night” event to give members of the community the opportunity to have their voices and stories heard.
The event will be held in front of the Joe Crowley Student Union at the University of Nevada with the rally starting at 5:00 p.m. and the march will begin at 8:00 p.m. There will be food, speakers, dance performances, poets, live music, information about services, and opportunities to share stories.
The Justice Department estimates that fewer than 5% of completed and attempted rapes of college women are reported to law enforcement officials. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the University of Nevada and the Reno/Sparks community will join together to end the silence and take back the night.
