we took back the night.

Last week, GCNW founder and 2009 CNN Hero Betty Makoni visited Villanova University with Philadelphia activist Ben Escobar, of BE Associates. On Wednesday, April 7, she brought beauty, grace, and inspiration to our campus, and all who were lucky enough to be in attendance were incredibly moved. Our beloved Betty told her story, as well as the stories of her GCN girls, and we were blown away by her eloquence and genuine nature. For me, it was my second time being with Betty, and I was incredibly proud to introduce her to our GCNova team and Villanova’s students. Even more amazing, Betty was just as proud of us and what we have accomplished so far as a team here in Pennsylvania.

Still feeling the inspiration that Betty left us with last week, GCNova took further steps last night to break through the barrier of silence on college campuses.

On Monday, April 12, 2010, GCNova led our very first Take Back the Night event. Arranged by GCNova Vice President Maren Miller, the candlelit walk and vigil began on South Campus, where a group of about 30 students gathered to honor and remember victims and survivors of sexual abuse. With candles in hand, we walked from South Campus, through Memorial Park, and up the path towards St. Thomas of Villanova Church. When we arrived at the steps of the church, we were treated to a dating violence skit performed by students of this semester’s Philosophy of Women course. Finally, three GCNova members read the memoirs of three survivors of sexual assault.

After the event, one Villanova student volunteered to lead a prayer circle for all victims and survivors of abuse.

It was an incredible, touching, emotional event. For all of those who have been afraid to speak up about abuse, for those who have been courageous enough to stand up and be a voice against assault, and for women and children throughout the world who must fear walking alone after dark… Villanova took back the night.

Click thumbnails for full image.