Rally for women's safety

Photo: Nicholas Johansen

The Take Back the night march took to the streets of Kelowna Thursday night.

Dozens of people took to the streets of downtown Kelowna Thursday night, with signs and chants, for the annual Take Back the Night rally and march.

The event, organized by the the Central Okanagan Elizabath Fry Society, has the goal of ending violence against women, and making the streets safer for people when night falls.

“Most women don't feel safe walking in the dark alone,” said Michelle Novakowski, executive director of the Central Okanagan Elizabath Fry Society. “Most men don't feel that way, so we want to make everyone feel safe.”

The event can trace it roots way back to the 1970s, when a march was held in Philadelphia to protest the death of a women who'd been murdered while walking home alone. Marches are now held around the world, with Kelowna's dating back to the 1980s.

“We're working on having people speak up to end violence, and it's happening, with movements like Me Too and Times Up, our doors are bursting,” Novakowski said. “We have women coming forward that have never told before, so it's very exciting. I feel the ground shake, a change coming. I think we're making progress.

“The last year or so, it's been really inspiring to see the bravery of women, and young women, coming forward.”

After a few presentations in Kerry Park, including a brief self defence talk, the group took off down Bernard Avenue, chanting phrases like 'No means no,” and “Women's rights are human rights.” Several passing vehicles honked in support.

“It's very powerful to feel part of change. It's healing, it's supportive and we can have fun and make change at the same time,” Novakowski said.