Hundreds of people gathered in Downtown Fargo in an attempt to take back the night. Every two and a half minutes, someone is sexually abused. And every nine minutes, someone falls victim to domestic violence in the United States.
As hundreds rallied and marched tonight, a survivor is speaking out to stop the violence and show that you can regain strength and dignity after being a victim.
The violence victim says, "I would have moments of absolute panic."
She's a woman of courage.
"A lot of shame, a lot of blame, a lot of guilt around it," says the victim.
And... she's a survivor.
"He threw me around, he slammed me against walls," says the victim.
She's been in two abusive relationships and asked me not to show her identity, but fear hasn't kept her from living her life and speaking out at the Take Back the Night Rally and March, an event aiming to wipe out abuse. Last year, 34 people in Minnesota and 11 people in North Dakota died from sexual and domestic violence.
Daria Odegaard with the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center says, "We are reclaiming this community and we are taking back the night."
One way people are remembering those who lost their lives and honoring victims of violence is by taking these luminary bags and writing inspirational quotes.
Victim names are also on these luminary bags. And if we can get past the numbers and realize that real people are behind them, then we can take steps forward.
Odegaard says, "The most important thing to know is if people are being harmed, there is help out there for them."
"It doesn't have to be a struggle forever, that change can occur," says the victim.
Bringing light and hope over people's fears.
Last year, 2900 people needed the Fargo Rape and Abuse Crisis Center for help. For the past few years, that number has risen.
If you or a loved one needs help, it's available 24/7. Just call 701-293-7273.
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