Take Back the Night 2026

Thursday, April 9th, 2026 was a gorgeous sunny day- perfect for uniting against sexual violence and abuse at the annual Take Back the Night rally and march. The Abuse and Sexual Assault Prevention organization at Penn organizes the Take Back the Night rally and march every spring, continuing a tradition that began in Philadelphia in the 1970s after large amounts of violence, and expanded across the world. TBTN 2026 began with a resource fair to learn about resources for anyone who has experienced violence in any form, including sexual violence. The statistics were shocking: almost a third of women at Penn have experienced some form of sexual assault. The need for awareness and positive action is more than ever. 

The rally that followed was inspiring and everyone was super excited for the march. Over 300 people attended and the march began at Van Pelt Library led by the Penn Band. Everyone showed off incredible signs displaying important messages like “Consent is Key”. SWE Advocacy had an amazing time making posters for the event :) 

The march went down Locust Walk and people stopped to cheer and learn about the cause. We looped down Walnut Street chanting phrases like “Students Unite, Take Back the Night” and “The Way I Dress Is Not a Yes”. It felt amazing to vocalize the feelings of frustration that so many people at Penn, and around the world, face. 

The march ended with a candlelit vigil and a moment of silence for those who have unfortunately experienced sexual and/or physical violence. I am super excited for Take Back the Night 2026 and we at SWE hope the statistics will improve by then. It’s in all of our hands.