Local group plans to 'Take Back The Night'

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Survivors and advocates plan to converge on Decatur's Central Park on Thursday night.

Their goal: to raise awareness and support for people affected by sexual assault.

Growing Strong is hosting its 40th annual 'Take Back The Night' rally. Organizers plan to hold a march through downtown and also offer space for people to share their stories and support.

"Sexual assault is not a problem that is going to go away if only one person or one agency is worried about it," said the group's prevention supervisor, Rebecca Madden. "We have to have the entire community realizing this is an everybody problem."

'Take Back The Night' started in the 1970s as a push to help women feel safer walking alone at night, but it has since broadened its focus to empower all survivors of sexual assault.

The march starts Thursday at 5:30 p.m. with the rally and guest speakers to follow.