By Max Kyburz

For over 35 years, survivors of rape, sexual and domestic violence and their supporters have stood side by side for Take Back the Night, a special event dedicated to making those who have endured such abuse to feel like they are not alone and to instill hope in a brighter future.

Last Wednesday, it was time once again for CCSU students to Take Back the Night. In a dimly lit, closed off section of Semesters, a large congregation of students, faculty, friends, family and other visitors came together. The evening provided a platform for both men and women to listen and share, as well as feel unafraid. Though a great deal of violence had been inflicted over the course of many years, there was never a resolved notion to retaliate violently (though it is felt that victimizers deserve it). Rather, the attendees channeled their violent aggression and outrage into camaraderie. The main focus of the evening, it seems, was to never classify oneself as a “victim,” which would exert a defeatist attitude.

Posters featuring celebrities like Oprah Winfrey adorned the walls, proclaiming “I Am A Survivor of Sexual Assault.” Also on the walls were quilts put together featuring supportive slogans, made specifically for the annual event. At the event’s entrance sat signs for attendees and participants to grab, with slogans ranging from “I Am A Survivor” to “I Am A Family Member of a Survivor.” From the get-go, it was clear that the evening was far from exclusive.

Donna Chambers, a student of CCSU and survivor of marital domestic abuse, began the evening with a soulful rendition of Diana Ross’ “Reach Out & Touch.” Soon after the testimonials were under way. Preconceptions be damned, the statements did not only come from women, but men as well. Phil, a UConn student, asked for the involvement of men in support groups against sexual violence, as the issue pertains just as much, if not more, to men as women. Phil noted that nearly three million men nationwide have admitted to being sexually abused.

The CCSU police took the stage next, assuring attendees that their safety is their highest priority. They went on to remind them that they are always there to talk to whenever needed.

“It takes a lot of courage to be here,” they said. “You should all be applauded.”

After the campus officers exited stage, the floor was opened up to those who felt enough courage to speak. After some hesitation, the first student took the stage: a sophomore named Amanda. A theatre major and a dancer, Amanda shared her story of an abusive encounter with a former babysitter. Still, she didn’t allow that experience to get in her way of overcoming.

“I am a hero tonight,” Amanda said. “We are all heroes.”

Krystal Rich, who gained attention after being assaulted by former CCSU professor and chief diversity officer Moises Salinas, came forth to share her feelings on the whole matter. Swore she, “I’d never let anyone hurt me again,” and she constantly wished to hear the words “It wasn’t your fault.” She rightly proclaimed that it doesn’t matter what you wear, “nobody has the right to touch you for any reason. It’s the climate that needs to be changed.”

Some, however, were not as able to share. Upon approaching the microphone, one young man broke down and took a while before he finally admitted those immortal words: “I am a survivor.” He didn’t say much else, but as someone later noted, it takes a lot of courage to say just that.

While many young people were newcomers to the annual event, some participants were veterans. Jennifer joined the event for the 10th time, sharing her sordid history of abuse and the alcoholism that followed. Despite all that she painfully endured, Jennifer stands beside her husband, another sexual assault survivor, as defenders against victimizers.

“I am not, nor will I ever be, a victim again,” Jennifer asserted.

Preceding and following Jennifer’s powerful testimony, countless others came forth and gave their sorrowful but ultimately inspirational stories. It was a night that gave power to those who felt powerless, whether they be former victims or bystanders who assume little control over the state of sexual violence. For a night that dealt with an issue that inflicts in most the desire to die, the evening inspired a greater will to persevere and live.