Sororities gathered in clumps, clubs including Spectrum and EFFECT readied their banners and Becca Bishopric, coordinator for violence prevention and response at Elon University, took the microphone.
“I just want to thank you all for coming,” Bishopric said. “All of you being here, you’re showing us how important the commitment is to stop sexual violence.”
Together, the hundreds of students began to chant, “We have the right to take back the night! End the silence, stop the violence!” The “Take Back the Night” rally had begun.
“Take Back the Night” is a peaceful protest against sexual violence and abuse that encourages victims to end their silence and speak out about their experiences. Elon’s Campus Safety and Police department and representatives from CrossRoads, a sexual assault and crisis center in Alamance County, joined Bishopric and spoke before the rally began.
The students marched through Greek Row and Young Commons before settling into Whitley Auditorium for the second half of “Take Back the Night.” Students, regardless of gender identity, race or class, were encouraged to share their stories of sexual assault in a safe space. Many tears were shed.
“I didn’t think I was going to be able to share, but other people’s stories, they were so brave,” said a student granted anonymity by The Pendulum because of the sensitive nature of the situation. “I’m so glad I did.”
“Take Back the Night” is part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which kicked off April 11 with “Can I Kiss You,” a presentation about consent and healthy relationships.
The national Clothesline Project recently came to Elon, as well. The Clothesline Project encourages victims of sexual assault to design a T-shirt that reflects their experience or their message, in order to take control of their story.