UNC Charlotte held its annual “Take Back the Night” on October 1, at 6:30 p.m. at the Belk Tower. Over hundreds of students, men and women from the Charlotte community came out to take a stand against Domestic Violence.

Dedicating to the night, the Belk Tower was wrapped in a purple sheath, purple being the color representing survivors and loved ones lost by domestic abuse.

Also, surrounding the ceremonial area were T-shirts provided by the University’s Women’s Program. The T-shirts were made for The Clothesline Project; each T-shirt displayed messages and illustrations of abuse and assault, so that they may highlight the truth of violence against women.

When the ceremony opened, it immediately shined the light on domestic violence.

Statistics show that one in every four women and one out of 6 men will endure abuse from their partner or spouse. Domestic violence is not just physical abuse, but verbal assault as well.

UNCC’s on campus resources promoted their counseling and wellness programs for anyone (statistic or not) in need of help, so that prevention increase one life at a time here at UNCC.

Further into the ceremony was the Candlelight Vigil; the crowd participated in lighting candles in memory of the survivors and victims of domestic violence. Taking tremendous courage, students had the opportunity to share not just their story, but also their deep dark secrets of surviving domestic violence in its many forms. “I Will Remember You,” by Sarah McLachlan played in the background among the flickering lights.

Each reader and survivor gave back their voices to themselves and those impacted by domestic violence. Firmly claiming, “though we are silent, we play a role” and “never let your misfortunes be your excuse, use them as your motivation.”

At the conclusion of the event, a men’s pledge was shared. Women pledged to “stop talking about the right thing, but start doing it.” The crowd was then taken to the Garden of Hope to be dedicated and symbolize new beginnings, remembering in hope and faith of the survivors and victims of domestic violence.
 

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