Take Back the Night brought the Carleton Place community together for its 20th anniversary, continuing a tradition of standing against sexual and gender-based violence and showing survivors they are not alone.
Since 2006, Carleton Place has proudly hosted one of Canada’s most well-attended rural Take Back the Night marches, giving residents a chance to come together, remember lives affected by violence and raise awareness about safety and support.
The event highlighted a reality that still exists for many people, feeling afraid to walk alone at night and feeling isolated after experiencing violence.
Brianne Luckasavitch, Victim Advocate at Lanark County Interval House, says survivors often tell her they feel alone. She says events like Take Back the Night can remind people that they are not by themselves and that others care and want to make a change.
Participants also highlighted the importance of seeing people come together, especially in smaller and rural communities where distance can contribute to isolation and make support harder to access.
While the event carried a serious message, participants said there was also a sense of positivity, community and empowerment.
Luckasavitch says support is available through Lanark County Interval House and Community Support, including a 24-hour crisis line and services for women, children and families across the county.
Residents can also help by having conversations about sexual violence, volunteering and supporting local services.
The 20th anniversary served as another reminder that safety and support are shared community responsibilities.
Story by Jessica Minnie
