Take Back the Night, Takes Edmonton

Some of you who are up on the current events in Edmonton might be wondering why we here at AGRDT are writing about Take Back the Night (TBTN) a week too late. Well, it is because events like TBTN are NEVER too late to talk about. Although we would like to, we can't write about every single event that takes place in our province, but I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of  TBTN and why it is still crucial for events like this to take place.  For those of you who are unfamiliar with TBTN it is a rally and march to create awareness for women and children, who have been, and continue to be violently abused. 

I was fortunate enough to attend the TBTN rally in Edmonton last Friday night, and am somewhat embarrassed to admit, as a self identifying feminist, this was my first time.  I went to the rally, very unsure of what to expect. However, any preconceived notions I had were completely shattered. First, I didn't expect that many people to attend, I have been to many community events with a sub-par turnout. Well, I was completely wrong about this one. TBTN Edmonton drew over 250 people who marched in solidarity to stop the abuse of women. Second, I thought that even though men are invited,  not many will show up. Also wrong, while there were more women, I was surprised and pleased with the diversity of genders present. Thirdly, not only did the march bring out individuals of all genders it brought out individuals of all ages and social backgrounds. It was also great to see many community leaders involved in such an important cause. Finally, I truly appreciated the opportunity this event gave to women to share their stories and console with other victims of violence and abuse.

While many of our enlightened readers are probably well aware of the harsh realities of violence against women and children, it is important to take time to think about what we can do to try and prevent this from occurring to someone we may know. While I was just an observer and participant at last weeks rally I want to say thanks to all of the people who attended.  The point of any peaceful protest is just to raise awareness so that even one more person might take notice, and might think twice about being abusive, or stopping an abusive situation. If you didn't attend, that's ok, there is always next year... 

Comments

[Feynman & Coulter's Love Child]

I'm with Space Moose on this one. Since the dawn of antiquity man has ruled the night. What on earth is there to "take back"? (And isn't spousal abuse done in the home? Shouldn't abused men "take back their castles?"

[eh]

"Take Back the Night" refers to the idea that most women feel apprehensive about walking alone at night, largely for fear of being attacked or raped by a stranger. I suppose if you don't experience this fear regularly this concept may be difficult to understand. TBTN's meaning has been expanded to denounce all forms of violence against women and children.