Andrew Gutman
Editor in Chief
Silence can be many things. It can be uncomfortable, it can be scary, but sometimes – it can be powerful.
On Tuesday at 8 p.m., 150 students gathered under the calm night sky at Alumni Hall to participate in “Take Back the Night.” Some came to hear stories, some came to share, but all came to show support. Students Against Violence Everywhere (or S.A.V.E) hosts this event every year to give students a chance to break the silence with silence.
Students of all grades take the silent walk from building to building. At each building, a student who was pre-chosen speaks usually about an incident that was significant to them.
“It gives the speakers the opportunity to have the ability to have everyones attention,” said Nicole Madera, President of S.A.V.E. “It also increases the awareness about the fact that silence is how many people live their lives.”
Sexual assault is a sad reality that plagues College campuses. For many, it isn’t always a stranger, but instead someone the victim already knows. And, although campuses take precautions to ensure students are as safe as possible, assaults still happen.
The idea of the walk is to empower students. In such a large group, students can feel comfortable and not as vulnerable. It is the perfect environment to share and feel better.
After the talk, students can meet with a member of the counseling center in case they want to further discuss anything or maybe talk in private.
Although sexual assault is a tragedy that happens at campuses across the country, you can get help, and break the silence.
“You’re not alone,” said Vice President of S.A.V.E, Brianna Collins. If there was a single take away from the event, that was the most important one.