The Take Back the Night (TBTN) Committee is part of an international movement that works to raise awareness about issues surrounding sexual assault, while also protesting the climate of fear and violence that women must confront in today’s society. Here at UCSB the TBTN committee worked year round to aid women in finding and demonstrating their empowerment. It provided a forum for women to make their voices heard, and created an environment in which survivors of sexual assault can begin to heal. The committee’s work intensified in April, which has been designated Sexual Assault Awareness Month. It culminated with a TBTN rally in Anisq ‘Oyo’ Park and march through Isla Vista.

This year students gathered in Isla Vista’s Anisq’oyo Park on Thursday, April 19th for a rally and march which featured a special keynote address by Dr. Edwina Barvosa of the UCSB Department of Chican@ Studies and Feminist Studies Departments and performances by local bands and student performers. The community of UCSB and Isla Vista gathered to break the silence and march against sexual violence and the effect this crime has on our friends, family, and community! The evening also included the sharing of personal stories by students. Anisq ‘Oyo’ Park became a safe space for acknowledgement and support.

For a short video, “Take Back the Night Rally,” about the importance of TBTN and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, click here.