Hundreds of Londoners gathered at Victoria Park on Thursday evening, September 18, 2025, for the annual ‘Take Back the Night’ march. This significant event, dedicated to ending sexual assault, rape, abuse, and all forms of gender-based violence, marked a powerful return to in-person gatherings following the COVID-19 pandemic. The march served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for safety and equality within the community and underscored the vital importance of consent and respectful relationships.
Voices of Resilience and Hope
The evening commenced with impactful speeches and songs that resonated with solemn tones, addressing the profound pain caused by gender-based violence. A central figure at the event was author and justice advocate Jane Piper, who bravely shared her personal experience of surviving a violent sexual assault in August 2003. Piper recounted her long journey of healing and reclaiming her life, emphasizing the event’s purpose: “Like tonight, we’re here to ‘Take back the night!'”. Her testimony highlighted the deep personal impact of such violence and the strength found in speaking out and seeking collective healing.
A Collaborative Community Effort
The ‘Take Back the Night’ march in London was a testament to collaborative community action. It was organized by a coalition of local partners, including Anova (formerly Women’s Community House and Sexual Assault Centre London), the London Abused Women’s Centre, Changing Ways, Queer Intersections, the Muslim Resource Centre for Social Support and Integration, Western University, and Fanshawe College, with support from the City of London. Anova, a leading organization providing shelter, support, counselling, and resources for abused women and their children, plays a crucial role in addressing gender-based violence in the region. The event also coincided with Ontario’s first-ever Consent Awareness Week, a new initiative aimed at promoting respectful relationships and consent education, further reinforcing the societal dialogue around these critical issues.
Historical Context and Societal Impact
The ‘Take Back the Night’ movement has a long and storied history, originating in the 1970s as a response to the pervasive fear women experienced walking alone at night. Initially focused on reclaiming public spaces and protesting sexual violence against women, the movement has evolved to encompass all forms of violence and support for all survivors, regardless of gender. The recent resurgence of such events in London comes amid heightened public awareness due to concerning incidents, including a not-guilty verdict in a high-profile sexual assault trial and the discovery of anti-women graffiti on a local overpass. These events underscore the persistent societal challenges and the urgent need for continued activism and systemic change.
Moving Forward: A Call for Action
The march through Victoria Park, joined by emergency services, community leaders, and a diverse public, was more than just a protest; it was a powerful demonstration of solidarity and a collective call for justice. Participants emphasized the need for action, not just apologies, and for governments and institutions to prioritize the protection of survivors over shielding abusers. The event serves as a crucial platform for education, healing, and advocating for a future free from violence. As the news from this event trends, it highlights the ongoing importance of these conversations within London’s culture and society, contributing to a broader national news narrative on gender-based violence and survivor support.
The ‘Take Back the Night’ march in London is a vital annual tradition that not only remembers those affected by violence but also galvanizes the community to work towards lasting change. By raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and supporting survivors, the movement continues its mission to ensure safer, more equitable communities for everyone.
