From THE COCOON
“Take Back the Night” will once again take place in Bowling Green, Ohio on Sunday, April 12, on Bowling Green State University’s campus, in the Jerome Library’s Pallister Conference Room. The event is hosted by the Office of the Dean of Students in collaboration with The Cocoon and is open to those both on and off campus.
Take Back the Night is an active empowerment and demonstration event for individuals who have experienced intimate partner violence and sexual violence, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, trafficking, stalking, gender harassment, and relationship violence.
This event is held to provide a safe, supportive, and uplifting space for individuals to speak out about the violence in their lives, mourn those who have lost their lives due to violence, advocate for those living with violence, and to be in community. In addition to local efforts, Take back the Night is recognized annually across the country.
Whether to show support for survivors of sexual violence, to share people’s stories of survivorship, or to help spread awareness about the issue in the community, people are asked to consider joining together for the event.
Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., followed by a welcome program from 6:15 – 7:10 p.m., featuring speakers Dr. Sandra Earle, BGSU university advocate; Rosa Beltre, president and CEO at Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence; and Sheena Barnes, director of people and culture at Equality Ohio and founder of Just Acts, LLC.
A march is scheduled for 7:15 – 8:15 p.m. This march serves as a peaceful demonstration throughout the BGSU campus and along East Wooster Street, involving signs and chants speaking out against sexual and domestic violence.
Following the march is a survivor speak out, where survivors of violence will be empowered to share about their experiences as a way to aid in their healing journey.
Take Back the Night will conclude with a closing program beginning at 9:30 p.m. featuring a performance by BGSU’s Ten40 a cappella group.
Community members, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to attend to show survivors that their stories matter, and that there is no place for sexual violence on the BGSU campus, in the Bowling Green community, or elsewhere.
To individuals with disabilities, indicate if additional services, assistance, or modifications to fully participate in this event are needed by contacting the Office of the Dean of Students of Accessibility Services at access@bgsu.edu or 419-372-8495 prior to the event.
Content Warning: This event will share the stories of those who have been impacted by violence. Be aware of one’s own well-being and take time to process. Advocates from The Cocoon will be present and are able to assist with support and resources.
