Standing together: Rowan’s Take Back the Night empowers survivors and allies

On Tuesday, April 7, Rowan University’s annual Take Back the Night event will continue its decade-long tradition of raising awareness of sexual and power-based violence while supporting and empowering survivors. Organized by Rowan’s Wellness Center, the program is designed to create a safe and supportive space where survivors and allies can share their experiences, access resources and stand together against interpersonal violence. Rowan has hosted the event on campus since 2010, building on an even longer history of advocacy on campus.

The event will begin at 6 p.m. in the Chamberlain Student Center Pit, beginning with a welcome session followed by tabling, a support space and a campus walk.

The program includes interactive tabling with information and giveaways from campus and community partners, along with activities for attendees. A support space in Room 127 will offer a smaller, facilitated setting for reflection and shared dialogue, followed by a symbolic 20-minute walk starting at the Chamberlain Student Center and moving through campus to promote safety and community empowerment. 

The event continues to emphasize community engagement by offering multiple ways for participants to take part. In recent years, organizers transitioned from a traditional open mic to a support space format, creating a more comfortable, small-group environment that encourages dialogue and provides stronger support for those who choose to share. 

“Take Back the Night is important because everyone deserves to feel safe on campus. By bringing awareness to sexual violence and providing a space for people to share their experiences, we are helping ensure they are heard and supported,” said Alison English, Rowan University’s Wellness Center Graduate Coordinator. “The involvement of student groups, departments and community partners shows that this is an issue the Rowan community cares deeply about.” 

Informational tabling will highlight a wide range of perspectives and initiatives, with participating groups addressing topics such as safe housing, workplace harassment, advocacy and recovery support. In addition, the event will incorporate educational elements like the FRIES consent model, reinforcing key messages around healthy relationships and consent.

The event is supported by a network of campus partners and community organizations, including the Wellness Center, Rowan Police Department, Campbell Library, Residential Learning and University Housing, Rowan Athletics and several student organizations. The program is organized by the Wellness Center’s Graduate Coordinator Alison English, in collaboration with Assistant Director of Health Innovation and Quality Assurance Allie Pearce, with additional coordination support from campus partners.

Take Back the Night is part of a broader, nationwide movement aimed at ending sexual and relationship violence, and Rowan’s annual program reflects the University’s continued commitment to fostering a safe, informed and supportive campus environment.

Story and artwork submissions can be sent to Wellness Center Director Dr. Amy Hoch at hoch@rowan.edu. The event is open to all members of the Rowan community.

For more information, contact englisha0@rowan.edu.