We write this Wespeak to invite the Wesleyan community to this year’s Take Back the Night march, which will begin on the steps of Olin on Thursday October 25th at 7:30 pm (rain or shine). The march is intended to acknowledge the presence of and represent the fight against sexual assault. This evening will be an opportunity for survivors of sexual assault to share their experience and for all participants to show their support. It will provide a vehicle for healing as well as for empowerment.

The Take Back The Night march consists of a short opening ceremony on the steps of Olin followed by three speak out circles at the Butterfield courtyard, the open space between William St. and Psi-U, and the CFA courtyard. In the third circle, there will be a large count-off by candlelight. It is always a powerful moment to witness the number of people who are showing their support in the fight against sexual assault. Each year we hope to surpass the previous year’s attendance.

After much discussion we decided on guidelines that we hope will allow the march to be inclusive of all, yet comfortable to those seeking a safe space in which to share personal stories. In keeping with the traditions of this national march, as well as to acknowledge that the majority of sexual assault victims are women, we suggest that those who desire to march only in the company of other women come to the front of the procession.

We have decided to designate the first speak-out circle as a space specifically for female voices. We acknowledge that men are also survivors of and affected by sexual assault, thus the second and third speak-out circles are open to both men and women.

While we realize that sexual assault concerns everyone and evokes strong reactions, the circles are intended for personal stories and not for political statements. Due to the serious nature of the event, we ask that everything shared in the speak-outs remain confidential.

We hope that the entire Wesleyan community will take a step toward ending sexual violence. See you at Take Back the Night!

The Woman’s Resource Center is located at 287 High Street