‘Take Back the Night’ returns to Brandon University with march and rally

An empowering event and annual tradition to end gender-based violence is returning to the city this week. “Take Back the Night” will march from Princess Park to Brandon University on Thursday evening, where refreshments, resources and more will welcome participants.

“‘Take Back the Night’ has been a tradition in Brandon for nearly 20 years,” said Sandy Smith, Advocacy and Community Engagement Coordinator at the Women’s Resource Centre, which is partnering with Brandon University and the YWCA to restart the event after a hiatus during the pandemic.

“The goal of this event is to build awareness in our community around gender-based violence and empower people in a collaborative way,” she said. “We stand on the shoulders of the women who have come before us and this event is about bringing all generations together.”

“Take Back The Night” starts in Princess Park at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday evening, Oct. 20. At about 6 p.m., participants will march from the park to the Brandon University campus. On campus, a small resource fair and refreshments like hot chocolate and treats will await in the Mingling Area of the Knowles–Douglas Student Union Centre. The resource fair will include organizations like the YWCA, SERC, The Women’s Resource Centre, and Westman Teams Against Sexual Exploitation.

“‘Take Back The Night’ is the oldest worldwide movement to stand against sexual violence in all forms, dating to the 1970s, and we’re thrilled to bring it back,” said BU professor Dr. Kelly Saunders, who is involved in organizing the event.

‘Take Back the Night’ is open to everyone.

“We encourage allies to participate,” Smith said. “Come out and join us for a powerful, positive event with a great group. We’d love to see you there.”

(BU News Release)