All across the world, campuses and communities will come together to ‘Take Back the Night,’ an annual rally, march and speak-out event to support victims and survivors of sexual and relationship violence. This year, Syracuse University will host Take Back the Night on Wednesday, March 25 at 7 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel. While the annual event happens throughout one evening, here are some ways you can be part of the efforts to end interpersonal violence and support victims and survivors year-round.
Get Involved
Whether you’re interested in taking on a more active role or looking to join in a few more events throughout the year, getting involved is a great way to raise awareness across your community and help prevent interpersonal violence. On campus, there are tons of ways to get involved, from joining the Peer Educators Encouraging Healthy Relationships and Sexuality (PEEHRS), to attending events during Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April. You can also look for volunteer opportunities with local organizations.
Educate Yourself
Through the Barnes Center at The Arch, you have access to trainings and workshops that can help you learn more about the complexities of interpersonal violence, how to be a prosocial bystander, and resources available. There are countless resources available online, too. A couple are the Take Back the Night Foundation, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, and RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network).
Share the Resources
There is a network of support available on- and off-campus for those impacted by interpersonal violence. Students have access to 24/7 confidential support, advocacy and discussion of reporting options through the Sexual and Relationship Violence Response Team at the Barnes Center.