Over 140 people joined the Reclaim the Night march organised by the Students’ Union, which took place last night (Thursday 20 February).
Over 140 people joined the Reclaim the Night march organised by the Students’ Union, which took place last night (Thursday 20 February) to shine a light on the need for safer streets in Ipswich and on the issue of violence against women and girls.
The event started with a busy banner making session which was led by the LGBTQ+ society. Fuelled by free tea and coffee kindly supplied by Paddy & Scott’s, a great selection of placards were crafted by people ready for the march.
Then everyone moved into the Waterfront Foyer, for short speeches and a safety briefing for the march.
Shannon, Women’s Officer, started by outlining some of the issues faced by women and girls across the world, including abortions being banned in the USA, 230million girls having undergone female genital mutilation, and proposed laws in Iraq which could allow marriage to girls as young as 9 – information which drew audible gasps from the audience.
Then it was the turn of LGBTQ+ Officer Lauren, who explained the reasons behind the march, and highlighted that the route had been chosen because it's the one which students must take into town. She finished to much acclaim, saying: “Tonight we reclaim our streets, our voices, our bodies – our right to live without fear.”
With special Reclaim the Night keyring torches handed out to participants – handy safety reminders of the event – the procession made its way along the waterfront, led by chants from Lay, and to a strict timetable to ensure that we met the BBC Look East camera crew for a live link into the evening news.
Then it was loud and proud again past the bars and restaurants on St Peters and St Nicholas Streets on to the Cornhill, where we gathered in front of the Town Hall. Professor Jenny Higham, UoS Vice Chancellor, gave a short speech outlining some of the important work into gender based violence being carried out by the university researchers, and then SU President Katie led everyone in a very poignant and emotional minutes silence as the candlelit vigil paid tribute to all those lost to gender based violence.
SU Chief Exec Dionne closed proceedings with a call to action for decision makers, leaders and allies to support vital services, create a culture of safety and respect and challenge harmful behaviours. She said “Keeping women safe on the streets isn't just about self-defence classes—it starts with men. We must all do our part to create a society where safety and equality are not negotiable.”
After the event the Students’ Union officers reflected on the evening. SU Presidents Katie and Lewis said: “"We were delighted to see so many people come out into Ipswich for such a worthy cause; students, staff and members of the community took a stand for something that must come to an end. Gender based violence continues to happen all too often and women simply do not feel safe when walking into town. Last night we ensured our voices are heard and that students need safer streets. When students come together, we are able to create real change and have positive impact on our local community."
Women’s Officer Shannon said: “I am in awe of the support received last night, turning around and seeing everyone with their banners chanting and celebrating, I was beyond proud of the community we have created! The march for me was supporting women and girls worldwide who don’t have the voice to fight for their equality.”
LGBTQ+ Officer Lauren added:” Last night’s Reclaim the Night march was a powerful and emotional testament to our continued fight for safety, equality and the right to exist in public spaces without fear. The turnout was incredible, and the energy was nothing short of inspiring. It was a beautiful reminder that we are not alone in this fight and that the demand for justice, for survivors, and for a future free of fear remains as urgent as ever. The passion we witnessed from everyone who attended truly made the evening unforgettable. As elected student officers, we could not be prouder to stand alongside all those who marched. We made our mark last night and we will continue to demand the change we deserve. Together, we are stronger.”
