With signs and candles as support, more than 60 men, women and children marched from the Memorial Union through Campustown on Wednesday evening.

Take Back the Night is an international event, supported through college campuses and communities to raise awareness about violence against women. The event is organized by Iowa State’s Committee Against Violence, to promote awareness and support for victims of violence.

The event included a rally held on the terrace of the Memorial Union, followed by the march and a celebration at the Maintenance Shop from folk singer Shannon Murray.

Judith Dolphin, adviser for the Committee Against Violence, said the purpose of Take Back the Night is to address all forms of victimization, including domestic abuse, rape and any other violent experiences.

“As a person who has not been assaulted, I think it’s important for society to know that all people should be safe, comfortable and not have to worry about their safety,” she said.

Dolphin said the rally had a personal aspect because people are able to hear personal stories from people who are connected with violence. Then, the march is a way for the public to see that people are involved and care about violence against women.

Brenda Vargas, junior in animal ecology, spoke about her cousin, who was a victim of violence in Mexico. Vargas said her cousin disappeared from her job one day and was missing for a month until she was found in the middle of the desert burned, raped and stabbed to death.

“We need to do this every year to remind people that this is a painful and difficult subject. If we don’t remind them, they will forget,” said Penny Rice, coordinator of the Margaret Sloss Women’s Center.

Todd Holcomb, associate vice president of student affairs, spoke of his personal experience counseling a young woman who had been sexually assaulted at the University of Miami (Ohio). Holcomb said it was sad the young woman’s fear had driven her from her education.

“This [fear] is why we must build awareness for the safety of women,” he said. “We must not isolate these victims and make them feel unsafe.”

The final speaker at the rally was Mary Howell Sirna, Story County assistant district attorney, and a member of the Sexual Assault Response Team. Sirna’s message to the crowd was also about awareness.

“These are not just random stranger crimes,” she said. “These are acts committed by friends and acquaintances, and they can happen to anyone.”

Sirna also stressed how important it is for women and men to protect and support each other.

“Protect yourself and each other — stay in groups, know your surroundings and be careful,” she said.

Jared Graeve, freshman in community and regional planning, said he also attended the event to promote awareness of violence.

“This happens in our community,” he said. “It’s our duty to band together to help protect and support women.”