On September 19, 2024, approximately 600 people gathered at the Hamilton City Hall Forecourt to take part in the annual Take Back the Night event. This year's theme, "I believe a world free of violence is possible," served as a powerful call to action, inspiring participants to dream of and work toward a world without violence.
Miranda Jurilj, SACHA's Public Education Coordinator and Chair of the Take Back the Night Committee, expressed her hopes that the event would empower attendees to believe in the possibility of a violence-free world.
"Believing that a world without violence is possible is really the only way we are able to work toward this world. We asked folks to believe, to dream, to hope, and to take action, knowing that we can do this together," said Jurilj.
Over the event's 40-year history, Take Back the Night has evolved into a powerful gathering of solidarity, empowerment, and community action. This year marked its largest turnout yet, driven by an expanded Indigenous Market and increased participation.
"Having people come out in solidarity is really the heart of the event," Jurilj noted.
The Indigenous Market featured a dozen vendors offering handmade items such as mugs, beadwork, illustrations, and jewelry. In addition, 30 community organizations set up tables, sharing information and providing free giveaways, all while respecting the space set aside for Indigenous creators.
"We asked that community organizations don’t sell or fundraise apart from our t-shirt sales to give space to Indigenous artists, businesses, and creators," Jurilj explained.
Throughout the evening, live performances, speeches, and poetry readings brought the theme of empowerment to life, creating a space where attendees could connect and feel seen.
"Art and music are powerful tools for connection," Jurilj remarked, noting how these elements helped energize the crowd before the march—a cherished tradition of Take Back the Night.
As attendees marched through the streets, they were met with a sense of empowerment and unity. For many, the march is a profound moment of connection and validation.
"The march makes participants feel empowered, seen, validated, connected, and not alone," Jurilj shared. "This is the core of all the work we do at SACHA: to uplift and amplify the voices of survivors and community so that together we are powerful."
Inclusivity was a key focus of the event, which was designed to welcome people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. The organizers ensured the space was accessible with activities for youth, a slow-paced march for those with strollers, and diverse representation from organizations. Volunteers, trained in de-escalation techniques and anti-oppression practices, were on hand to support attendees and ensure a positive experience for all.
Despite the challenges of organizing such a large event, Jurilj and the team remained committed to its success.
"Take Back the Night is big! And also so important to the community, whether they have been coming for decades or are new to exploring the event," she said.
Jurilj emphasized the importance of community events like Take Back the Night in addressing sexual and gender-based violence.
"We cannot end violence without talking about it, and we cannot support survivors without them knowing that people care," she explained.
For those who couldn’t attend, Jurilj offered a message of solidarity: "Whether or not you attend, you are not alone, and we are here to support you."
