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P I N I O N S
Editorial:
Let them take it back |
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Much controversy
has been stirring of late about whether men should be allowed
to march in the annual Take Back the Night march scheduled for
this evening. The Take Back the Night rally and march are held
to protest violence against women, in addition to other issues
of sexism women face each day.
The march is not meant to be "anti-male" but rather to be "pro-female."
In an April 10 press release, the organization defined the night's
events as an opportunity for women to raise their voices in demand
for an end to sexual violence, sexual harassment, domestic violence,
racism, poverty, homophobia, denial of reproductive freedom and
inadequate access to safe and affordable health care. It is an
opportunity for women to celebrate their strength with each other,
sans the protection or presence of men.
Only women, transgendered persons and children are welcome at
the march for very resolute reasons. It is not an event - it is
a statement. While men are welcome at the rally, held on the South
Patio of the Union at 7 p.m., they are asked to refrain from joining
the march. This does not mean, however, that men are barred from
being supportive in other ways. Most certainly, being respectful
is a great way to start.
Respect is the reason that the march is taking place. Men who
feel that they are entitled to join in do not understand nor appreciate
why it has been planned. Attempting to do so is simply taking
the position of those that the Take Back the Night march was first
formed to protest against. Men, if you feel very strongly about
showing your support for women, look into joining an organization
such as Men Against Sexual Violence, an organization specifically
for men that serves that purpose exactly.
Another way that supportive men and women who are not marching
can participate in the spirit of the event is to refrain from
comment as marchers pass. If you feel that you need to watch the
procession as it goes by, don't make disparaging comments, yell
or be disrespectful.
The ultimate display of consideration, of course, would be to
recognize and abide by the wishes of the Take Back the Night Collective,
and of all who participate in tonight's march.
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