Lasell’s annual Take Back the Night event, an evening of recognition of survivors of domestic and sexual violence, took place this year in a hybrid format. Students in Karin Raye’s criminal justice course on domestic violence planned and executed the first FLEX event. 

Outside of the Science and Technology Center (STC), a display of illuminated lanterns hung with messages of support and empowerment from survivors and members of the greater Lasell community.

“The evening focused on the power of connection, caring, and communities at a time when many of us, and survivors in particular, are feeling the impacts of isolation, social distancing, and separation,” said Raye. 

More than 150 people joined the event online and in person in COVID-compliant classrooms. Five speakers shared stories of childhood, teen, and college sexual and domestic violence, and talked about the “shame and blame” they went through, in addition to healing processes and dealing with the aftermath of those experiences. Two performers joined the group to share song and dance, and Lasell’s counseling staff made themselves available to attendees. 

“It was a powerful and moving evening which took considerable coordination and planning to create a seamless experience on Zoom and in person,” said Raye. “I am so very proud of my class for their vision, their determination, and their amazing execution as they rose to the challenge of planning this annual event.”