Reclaim the Night returns to Exeter’s streets on Thursday 30 November to protest against sexual violence and harassment of women and girls in public space.
The annual event seeks to challenge gender-based violence and inequality by raising awareness of sexual violence, street harassment and other forms of violence that predominantly target women and girls.
It offers a safe and inclusive space for individuals to advocate for policy change and demand justice for survivors of gender-based violence, and aims to change cultural attitudes and social norms that contribute to the perpetuation of this violence.
Last year a survey of 1,566 Exeter women found that more than 85% of its respondents felt unsafe or very unsafe when walking alone in the city centre at night.
A quarter said they had been affected by a sexual offence and a third said they had experienced harassment in the last three years.
When asked what they disliked about Exeter at night 70% said drunken behaviour, 60% said aggressive behaviour and almost half said they disliked the presence of gangs or groups.
Reclaim the Night march in Exeter High Street. Photo: Merryn Wilson.
Reclaim the Night Exeter takes place on Thursday 30 November 2023. The march route and supporting venues are accessible and the event is inclusive: everyone who wants to see an end to street harassment and gender-based violence is invited to participate.
Placard and banner making begins at 4.30pm at Positive Lights Project in Sidwell Street, where the march gathers at 6pm before setting off for Bedford Square at 6.15pm.
Organisers are looking for people to help run the event. To find out more email Reclaim the Night at exeterrtn@hotmail.com.
For more information about the march visit the Reclaim the Night Facebook page.
The event is co-ordinated by Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services, local feminist groups and students from the University of Exeter.
It takes place during 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an annual campaign co-ordinated by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership.
Safer Devon is running a programme of events that include training, a webinar, cold water swims, yoga classes and, on Saturday 25 November, a flashmob in Princesshay.
