The local chapter of Feminists Working on Revolutionary Democracy (F-WORD) marked the beginning of Sexual Assault Awareness Month on Monday with a Take Back the Night march from Armstrong Student Center to Oxford’s Uptown Park this week.

The Take Back the Night Foundation is an organization that formed during the 1970s with the goal of ending sexual, relationship, and domestic violence in all forms. Marches happen at various times throughout the year and occur all over the world to show solidarity and raise awareness for survivors.

F-WORD President Julia Koenig wanted to remind people that the conversation on sexual assault must continue, and we must continue to work to stop it. Still, to this day Rainn.org reports that college women are three times more likely to experience a sexual assault compared to any other group.

Once the 30 marchers reached Uptown Park, survivors of sexual violence shared their stories with the group and others who gathered to hear and said they would not be silenced any longer. They encouraged other members who were in the group who did not speak, and told them that they did not have to be silent anymore.

“I’m really proud of everyone who showed up and spoke out, and even those who showed up but didn’t speak,” Koenig said.

On Thursday, April 11, the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky branch of Take Back the Night held its own event. Participants marched, listened to keynote speakers, heard various musical performances, listened to survivor stories, and held a candlelight vigil for the victims who lost their lives to domestic violence.

To get involved in the organization, visit their website.

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