Alpha Chi Omega teamed up with the Women’s Center to bring an international tradition to UNF, while bringing awareness to domestic violence on Oct. 4. Through their efforts, the voiceless had a voice.

One in four women and one in seven men are affected by domestic violence, but Take Back the Night was nothing short of inspiration to show UNF that everyone was heard.

Participants walked through the campus, which was lit up in purple the color for domestic violence, to show support to those affected while also raising awareness.

As the sun went down, the candles brought light to those living in the dark. Songs were sang, stories were told, and candles lit up to show the sense of unity that women and men alike felt that night.

One woman came all the way from St. Augustine to share her story with the Ospreys. Katelynn Quarrels, a survivor, spoke for the first time in public about the time she was sexually violated by someone she called a friend. Quarrels’ experience inspired her to form Silence Hides Violence, a group with a goal to support victims of domestic violence.

She hopes to raise awareness of the commonality of domestic abuse through her organization and her message. It’s important to know about the resources available on campus. If you or someone you know needs to reach out, don’t hesitate to call the 24-Hour Crisis Hotline, (904) 620-1010, or the campus police at (904) 620-2800.

Gallery • 12 Photos

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Students helped Take Back the Night. Photo by Jesse Martinez

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