One out of every three women worldwide has been beaten, sexually violated, or abused by a partner, relative, friend, employer, or stranger in her lifetime, according to the Reproductive Health Response in Crises Consortium. Of these crimes, less than 50 percent are reported to authorities.
It is time to Take Back the Night.
From the first documented event in Philadelphia in 1975 in response to the murder of a young woman, Take Back the Night observances in the United States and worldwide have raised awareness of crimes against women. In connection with the international event, Mary Baldwin University (Mary Baldwin) students and community members are invited to participate in a Take Back the Night ceremony and walk November 14.
Student members of Mary Baldwin’s PERSIST (Promoting Excellence and Reinforcing Success in Student Traditions) program will sponsor the event and several have roles in the ceremony, which begins at 7 p.m. in Miller Chapel on campus. Guest speaker Nichole Burchette of New Directions Inc. will talk about the services offered at the women’s shelter, located in Staunton. Greater Things Dance Ministry and Anointed Voices of Praise will also perform during the event, which concludes with a candlelight march and procession of banners.
For more information, contact the Office of Inclusive Excellence and Multicultural Affairs at 540-887-7270.