Port Hope: Take Back The Night

CONTENT WARNING: topics of sexual assault, abuse and violence.

WHAT IS TAKE BACK THE NIGHT?

In October 1975 microbiologist, Susan Alexander Speeth, was murdered while walking home alone in Philadelphia. This resulted in one of the first “Take Back The Night” marches. Although the organization itself started in the 1960’s with the vision of ending all forms of sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, and sexual abuse.

In Port Hope, a local collective has teamed up to create an event that is focused on creating an inclusive space for survivors and advocating for justice at the local level (details below).

WHY PARTICIPATE?

We all know someone who has suffered from some form of sexual assault; sadly it is not an uncommon occurrence in many cultures and societies. 1/4 women will be sexually assaulted in their life time. Of course, women are not the only victims.

Participating in events like this helps others know they are not alone, and encourages them to seek the support they want. Take Back The Night started as an all women’s march, about women standing together, to encourage safe communities and respectful relationships. However, the marches have grown to include all allies.

HOW CAN YOU PARTICIPATE?

1. LIKE the Facebook Page: Take Back The Night Port Hope
2. SHARE the Facebook Event Page: Port Hope Take Back The Night Walk
3. Join us on Thursday, October 18th, 2018 at 7pm – 10pm in Port Hope’s Memorial Park to listen to speakers, poets, music and to march.
4. Keep your eyes/ears open for future events related to Take Back The Night. Thirty countries around the world hold a variety of events annually.
5. Remember sexual assault and violence are happening every moment of every day, it is our responsibility to learn and help any way we can. Share resources, stories, or hold your own events ANY TIME. Not just once a year.

OTHER INFORMATION AND RESOURCES:

• Take Back The Night Not-For-Profit Organization
• Wikipedia “Take Back The Night”
• A Brief History of Women’s Protests