By KATE PIERCE
Executive Editor
Claim our bodies, claim our right – take a stand, take back the night. This chant was heard loud and clear in Washington Park at an event aimed to combat sexual assault and support survivors.
“Take Back the Night is a great way to support survivors and let them know that they are not alone,” said Marella Whipple, a freshman. “It is really an inspiring event, and the work and effort of the people that put it together should not go unnoticed.”
Saint Rose was among eight colleges and universities in the Albany area to participate in the awareness raising event. Around 30 students and members of the campus community attended and participated in Take Back the Night.
“You have to be there for your friends,” said Daniel McCoy, Albany County Executive. “You’re the ones carrying this message out into the community.”
The program on April 19 featured Saint Rose students, Conor Walsh provided music, the Artistic Choice Dance Collective performed, and a student sexual assault survivor spoke during the rally.
“I can’t imagine what kind of courage it takes to stand up in front of a crowd of people and relay such traumatic experiences,” said Whipple. “But hearing these experiences allows for a conversation to happen, it allows for us to make changes to how we act as people and encourage others to do the same.”
Out of respect and privacy, the organizers ask that no photos or video be taken of the survivors when they spoke, and they would only be identified by a first name.
“I hear you, I see you, and I will always believe you,” said the second survivor speaker, Hayley.
“The past year has seen an incredible and inspiring movement,” said Rachel Wilson, prevention educator at the Albany County Crime Victim and Sexual Violence Center.
The #MeToo movement started a national discussion about issues of sexual assault. Part of the conversation was how catcalling and unwanted advances are part of social culture that supports and sustains sexual harassment.
In the week preceding the Take Back the Night, promotional events were held on campus to raise awareness. Students could pin teal ribbons on a wreath if they knew someone who was a victim of rape or sexual assault.
Handwritten notes supporting survivors were given to Albany County Crime Victim and Sexual Violence Center. Some were available for attendees to take what they needed at the event, and some will be used in grounding kits for the victims that utilize the center’s services.
Marching through the streets of downtown Albany, chanting and carrying signs, and holding candlelight vigils are a few of the events at the event aimed to promote change in the day to day interactions and stigma surrounding sexual assault.
“Sexual assault isn’t openly talked about on college campuses in general,” said Whipple. “There should be more open discussions on campus, more events and more awareness of this issue and many others. There will never be enough discussion until things start to change.”
