University News

Women's Center Hosts Take Back the Night Week

March 17, 2026

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MACOMB, IL – The Western Illinois University Women's Center will host a powerful series of programs for Take Back the Night Week, beginning Monday, March 23. These events are designed to raise awareness, support survivors and strengthen community advocacy around ending sexual and gender-based violence. The WIU Women's Center wants to bring together students, faculty, staff and community members in a shared commitment to empowerment, healing and survivor solidarity.

Take Back the Night is a longstanding international movement that supports survivors while advocating for safer communities. Through creative expression, dialogue and collective action, participants will engage in meaningful opportunities to reflect, learn and stand together in support of survivors.

All events will begin in the Multicultural Center multipurpose room unless otherwise stated. Scheduled events will include:
1-4 p.m., Monday, March 23 — Clothesline Project
A visual awareness display where participants create shirts that share messages of support, remembrance and advocacy for survivors of violence.

5-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 24 — Paint & Sip
An evening of artistic expression and community conversation where participants can reflect, connect and express messages of empowerment through painting.

4-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 25 — Community Take Back
A community gathering focused on dialogue, education and collective commitment to supporting survivors and preventing violence.

4–9 p.m. Thursday, March 26 — March & Rally (Sherman Hall and Chandler Park)
This will feature a campus march and rally that raises awareness and affirms the community's dedication to ending violence and supporting survivors.

These events are presented by the WIU Women's Center in collaboration with Western Illinois University Human Resources.

For more information about Take Back the Night Week and Women's History Month programming, contact the WIU Women's Center at womenscenter@wiu.edu.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing