Take Back the Night in-person event tonight

The annual Take Back the Night event that raises awareness to stop violence against women will take place Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and starts at Canada Games Plaza.

After speakers say a few words, including Mayor Lyn Hall, there is a march that starts at 7 p.m. which loops around downtown, making a quick stop on the front lawn of City Hall for a minute of silence, then goes back at Canada Games Plaza to end the event.

This is the 30th annual walk that honours the memory of those women who have not survived violence and to celebrate those who have, organizer Lori Armstrong said.

“And we demand an end to all forms of violence against women,” Armstrong said.

The march itself is exclusively for persons who identify as women and for children, while other supporters are invited to stay at the plaza until their return.

“We can and should be able to walk down the streets of our city safely and on our own – and we intend to do just that,” Armstrong said.

Because of the pandemic last year’s event was virtual so this in-person gathering feels especially important, she added.

“We’re really excited that on our 30th anniversary we actually get to march this year,” Armstrong said.

For more information email pgtakebackthenight@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/tbtnpg.