Organized by Lanark County Interval House and Community Support, the annual Take Back the Night 2024 march saw a great turn out with more than 100 people participating. Attendees gathered at Town Hall Square at 6:00 p.m on Thursday September 12. The atmosphere was expectant, poignant and welcoming. Residents from Carleton Place and the entire region including Ottawa were present to show their support and raise awareness to end femicide. Some men came out in support as well, though not as many as might be expected in 2024. The event kicked off with a few words from local politicians followed by a powerful rallying speech from Lanark County Interval House Executive Director Erin Lee.
RIGHT: Continuing their strong support for the march and its message, Mayor Toby Randell and Councillor Linda Seccaspina arrived early to attend and participate in the march. Mayor Randell gave a short speech of welcome urging attendees to spread the word and help end this terrible scourge. Photo credits: Heddy Sorour.
RIGHT: Dealing with the aftermath of femicide on a regular basis, Erin Lee, executive director of Lanark County Interval House urged participants to act whenever they see or hear abusive behaviours. She spoke eloquently about the need for communities and individuals to come together to provide protection, support and safe options for women and children experiencing domestic violence. Photo credits: Heddy Sorour.
RIGHT: Formed in Ottawa in 1989 the Oto Wa Taiko Tomomi group of Japanese drummers were on hand to drum out the beats of lost hearts before the march began. Photo credits: Heddy Sorour.
RIGHT: Attendees drop roses into the Mississippi River to commemorate the women whose lives have been lost to domestic violence and femicide. Photo credits: Heddy Sorour.
RIGHT: Turning off Mill Street onto Bridge Street, the marchers raised their voices alternating between two rallying chants as they made their way through downtown. Photo credits: Heddy Sorour.
