Each April, groups of college women and men across the country rally around campuses to bring awareness to and support for survivors of sexual violence.

On Monday, April 11, the Outreach Committee of the Wayne State University President’s Commission on the Status of Women (COSW) — in partnership with the Dean of Students Office and First Step — will host the annual Take Back the Night forum and rally.

Kim Trent, member of the WSU Board of Governors and African American 490 Challenge, will deliver the keynote address.

The event, which kicks off at 5:30 p.m. in the Student Center Building ballroom, 5221 Gullen Mall, will also include a presentation by Laura Starzynski, lecturer in the Department of Criminal Justice, and a performance by spoken-word artist Mahogany Jones. Kalimah Johnson, founder of the SASHA Center, will serve as mistress of ceremonies.

Attendees will have the opportunity to obtain information about local resources, participate in a march/rally on campus, share their thoughts and experiences during an open mic session, and learn about initiatives like Enough SAID (Sexual Assault in Detroit) and African American 490 Challenge.

Take Back the Night is an international event focused on ending sexual violence. Since its inception, hundreds of marches have taken place in more than 30 countries. 

Take Back the Night is free and open to the public. For more information, visit cosw.wayne.edu or call Sara Byczek at 313-577-8564.

Event schedule:

5:30 p.m.        Vendors

5:45 p.m.        Speakers

7 p.m.             Rally/march around campus, survivor’s story

8 p.m.             Open mic

8:30 p.m.        Event concludes