Marchers ‘Reclaim the Night’ from sexual violence

By Zoë Crowther, Students’ Union Correspondent

Chanting ‘Bristol unite, reclaim the night’, protestors took to the streets on Friday November 30 to campaign against gender-based violence and gender inequality.

Starting at 6:30 pm in Queen Square, the march proceeded through the city centre and finished at the Richmond Building, home to Bristol Students’ Union. Those identifying as women or marginalised genders were invited to lead the march, with many bringing their own banners and placards.

The march was organised by the SU and invited participation from all genders. Afterwards, attendees gathered for a night of music and recitals, including a DJ, speeches, poetry and a performance from the Bollywood Dance Society.

Speaking to Epigram, Chloé Lake, Chair of the Women’s Network, said ‘tonight is particularly important with the recent allegations of sexual harassment and also the #metoo movement, which unfortunately has to happen because harassment and assault are so ingrained in our society.'

‘Women and people who identify as women are coming together and making their voices one. It’s not just individuals speaking out, it’s more successful when people are brought together in a safe environment where they feel like they can air their views and be heard.'
Chloé Lake, Chair of Women's Network

Those attending the march extended beyond the University of Bristol community. Daisy Wakefield, President of UWE Feminist Society, took part and said ‘It feels quite impactful that there’s so many of us around together.

‘I felt there was definitely a difference between just talking about it online and then actually talking to people on the streets. You’re facing the public to talk about it.’

Holding a placard that stated ‘Consent is not too much to ask for’, third year Childhood Studies student Alena said:

‘When you’re at university it’s such a huge problem and no-one talks about it. It’s the twenty-first century and we don’t understand that when a girl is too drunk, she is not conscious to say no.’

Birdspeed, a poet and performance artist specialising in social commentary, was among the acts performing at the end of the evening. She explained to Epigram why she felt the march could have an impact: ‘The whole point of reclaiming the night is being united with people who feel the same way as you. And being able to show that you’re not afraid, that you’re not scared, and you want change to happen.’

Featured Image: Epigram / Zoë Crowther