A call for more male support for survivors and solidarity against gender-based violence was made during a recent march in Charlottetown. The Take Back The Night event, attended by over 100 individuals, featured participants carrying signs with messages like “Your story matters” and “Stand with survivors,” while chanting, “Who keeps us safe? We keep us safe.” Despite the turnout, primarily women and LGBTQ2S+ individuals were observed among the marchers.
Highlighted at the gathering was the importance of discussing consent, sparked by online stories like the alleged gang rape case involving former students at Cornell University, known as “the Cornell 7.” Kyra Barlow, from the P.E.I. Rape and Sexual Assault Centre, stressed the significance of initiating conversations about consent early on to address societal influences on children.
The event also emphasized that gender-based violence impacts everyone, including men. Anastasia Preston, the trans community outreach co-ordinator at PEERS Alliance, underscored that addressing misogynistic ideals is crucial as they harm both men and women, restricting men from expressing their emotions freely.
Participants like Samantha Bitty reiterated the need for solidarity among survivors, allies, and advocates for change. Barlow echoed the sentiment, expressing optimism that progress is being made as more individuals come forward to share their experiences, alleviating shame and guilt associated with gender-based violence.
While the march marked the end of Sexual Assault Awareness Week, another Take Back The Night event is scheduled in western P.E.I. later this month, indicating ongoing efforts to combat gender-based violence and promote support for survivors.