By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – Illinois State University students gathered on campus Monday night to Take Back the Night.

The annual Take Back the Night event raises awareness for domestic violence and is organized by the student organization Feminist Led Activist Movement to Empower (F.L.A.M.E.).

“The idea is that we go out, and march, and kind of take back our night,” said F.L.A.M.E. President Delaney Auth. “And, kind of, say this is our space too and we should be able to feel safe.”

Along with the march and candle light vigil, the night included domestic violence survivors sharing their stories and experiences. Auth said hearing from those speakers is important.

“It really helps, I think, the audience empathize and understand why we’re here. Also, we want survivors in the community to know that they have a safe space to share,” she said.

Auth added another goal of the night is to just get more people talking about domestic abuse.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].