Women from all walks of life, cultures and ages around the Niagara region will be joining together Thursday evening in St. Catharines for the annual Take Back the Night vigil and march.

The event, hosted by the Niagara Region Sexual Assault Centre, the Centre de Santé and several other community organizations will be multilingual this year. It will include inspirational speakers and music, face painting and other activities for children, display tables and a candlelight vigil to raise awareness about violence against women.

“The vigil has a long history in Niagara beginning in the late 70’s,” said Sharon Pazzaglia, of the Niagara Region Sexual Assault Centre. “If it reminds the community once a year that violence against women and children is still a prevalent issue, then it is a success.”

“When it comes to violence, it has no language or skin colour,” said Carol-Lynn DeBlois, of the Centre de Santé, a Francophone social service agency in Welland. “The more we can collaborate to put an end to violence, the better. Everybody has the right to be safe.”

Organizers will also be collecting non-perishable food and other items, such as bedding, towels and toiletries for the YWCA.

Take Back the Night will be held at the St. Catharines library on James St. starting at 6 p.m. If it rains, the event will move inside at Market Square across the street. Men and children are also welcome to attend.

For more information, contact Suzanne Mason, public education coordinator or Sharon Pazzaglia, project development coordinator, at 905 682-7258