Women in Crisis hosting ‘Take Back the Night’ Sept. 21

GUELPH – Take Back the Night is an annual march and rally held around the world to reclaim the streets, raise awareness, and foster solidarity against sexual violence.

Guelph-Wellington women in Crisis is once again asking local residents to participate in Guelph’s Take Back the Night on Sept. 21 at 6pm, starting at Marianne’s Park in Guelph.

This year’s events will focus on the theme Lead Where You Are - a quote from Liz Agbor-Tabi that reminds us that no matter where we’re starting from, we can make a difference in the world.

This theme is especially relevant this year, organizers state in a press release.

Rates of sexual and gender-based violence have spiked sharply since the pandemic; anti-2SLGBTQIA+ sentiment is rising across the country; and Ontario has seen alarming upswings in femicides across the province.

Despite many municipalities declaring intimate partner violence an epidemic, and the federal government naming gender-based violence an epidemic, our provincial government refuses to do so or to increase funding for sexual and gender based violence survivor supports.

Grassroots action and vocal political pressure are needed more than ever, organizers say.

“The Take Back the Night march celebrates the power of unity and the strength of collective voices. More than that, it illuminates the path towards a future where we all experience safety, equity, and justice,” states Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis executive director Sly Castaldi.

The event will feature drumming performances as well as speakers, a kids’ table and a march. All are welcome to participate and the event will be live streamed for those who can’t make the event in person.

For more details visit gwwomenincrisis.org.