Take Back the Night to raise awareness of sexual abuse

Jefferson County – As part of an international effort to end sexual violence in all of its forms, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, dating violence, and domestic violence, Jefferson College and COMTREA will again co-host “Take Back the Night” at 6 p.m. on April 25, at the college track on the Hillsboro campus.

The evening will include several awareness activities highlighted by a walk to recognize and support survivors of sexual violence and abuse. In case of rain, the event will be held in the Fine Arts Theatre.

“Take Back the Night” will also include an opportunity to view the Clothesline Project, an avenue for victims and survivors affected by violence to express their emotions by decorating a shirt and hanging it on a clothesline to be viewed by others as testimony to the problem of violence.

Other planned activities include the availability of resources from various community organizations, inspirational guest speakers, a drum circle, free T-shirts and Target canvas bags (while supplies last), hotdogs/chips/water/snacks for participants, music by DJ Donnie Beck, and a live broadcast by KJFF radio.

Attendees may also sponsor a luminary to honor or remember a loved one that tragedy or violence has affected. The luminaries will be used to light the track for the TBTN walk.

“Take Back the Night” empowers survivors in the healing process and inspires responsibility in all with a goal to create safe communities and respectful relationships through awareness events and initiatives. Events highlight the problem of violence against women as well as the broader issues of sexual violence: sexual assault, dating violence, sexual abuse, domestic violence, stalking, sexual harassment, child abuse, and other unhealthy relationships.