Take Back The Night: Shedding Light on the Fight Against Domestic Violence

On a crisp evening, the Beta Alpha Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated and the Louisiana Department of Justice joined forces to host the “Take Back The Night” event outside the Smith-Brown Memorial Union at Southern University. Amidst the enthusiastic gathering of students, alumni, and the radiant members of Sigma Gamma Rho, the event commenced with a powerful chant. United, they marched, aiming to raise awareness about sexual harassment and human trafficking that afflicts their campus. They managed to understand the profound impact of this event and shed light on the issue of domestic violence. The rhythmic footsteps of the participants echoed throughout Southern University’s campus as they chanted, “What do we want? Safe Streets! When do we want it? Now!” This unity of purpose and determination showcased the involvement and support from all corners of the university community. The march aimed to spread awareness not only among students, but also among staff and faculty members to emphasize that every member has a role to play in eradicating sexual harassment and human trafficking.
Securing a spot near the patio at the back of the Union, the attendees gathered to witness a poignant visual display commemorating the victims who had lost their lives or endured ongoing suffering due to domestic violence. Leading this endeavor was Latisha Davis Pike, the domestic violence fatality review specialist from Ujima, Inc., the National Resource Center on Violence Against Black Women. In with her stands Logan Lewis, the president of the Beta Alpha Chapter Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated. Latisha’s dedication to this cause stemmed from personal experiences and a desire to prevent further tragedies. As she stated to Southern Digest, “It’s okay to tell your story and reach out for help… It could ultimately lead to death and homicide.” When asked about her motivation for getting involved in prevention and awareness campaigns, Latisha shared her decade-long journey in this field. Starting as her first job post-college, her awareness and compassion grew with each passing year. Witnessing the impact of domestic violence on her friends and family, as well as losing survivors she supported, fueled her dedication to preventing such tragedies.
Latisha’s personal drive and belief in preventative interventions serve as a testament to the need for collective action against this social issue. Domestic violence, particularly sexual and intimate partner violence, is characterized by a cycle of intimidating tactics that trap victims in abusive relationships. This cycle includes various methods such as intimidation, emotional abuse, isolation, denial, blame-shifting, using children as excuses, male privilege, coercion, and threats. Awareness of these tactics is crucial for breaking the cycle and empowering survivors to seek help. The “Take Back The Night” event provided an opportunity for survivors and their allies to speak up and educate others about the pervasive nature of intimate partner violence. Denise, a secondary survivor of intimate partner violence, graciously shared her story, shedding light on the social and political implications of such violence. Latisha Davis Pike, in her role as a domestic violence fatality review specialist, provided insight into the realities of brutality and the critical need for societal change.
Additionally, Assistant District Attorney Melanie Fields contributed her perspective, emphasizing the importance of accountability in combating domestic violence. Emily Johnson, a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho and a junior majoring in criminal justice, passionately expressed her belief in the transformative power of self-love. “The importance of events like “Take Back The Night” is helping survivors regain their self-worth and propel themselves forward.” Damien Martell, an agriculture sophomore, highlighted the purpose and hope such events instill in survivors, reminding them that regardless of their circumstances, better days lie ahead. The visual display during the event acted as a catalyst for reflection, enabling attendees to honor those who lost their lives to intimate partner violence and celebrate the resilience of survivors. It served as a reminder that Louisiana alone witnesses around 65 deaths annually due to intimate partner violence, leaving lifelong trauma in its wake. By acknowledging these sobering statistics and paying tribute to those affected, the university community united in their determination to eradicate domestic violence.
The “Take Back The Night” event hosted by the Beta Alpha Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho and the Louisiana Department of Justice brought attention and awareness to the grave issue of domestic violence. The unity displayed during the march, the powerful voices of survivors, and the dedication of individuals like Latisha Davis Pike showcased the urgency to tackle this pervasive problem. By standing together, Southern University’s community demonstrated that they are taking back the night from fear and violence, supporting survivors, and working towards a brighter future.