The Centre Sarnia-Lambton is hoping allies will come together to show support and help amplify the voices of survivors during Take Back the Night.
The international movement is observed every year to stand against sexual violence and harassment.
Community Education Manager Trish Vanoosterom said the local initiative will begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 18, at the Sarnia Library Theatre.
"Our theme this year is Allies in Action," she said. "We're highlighting the importance of allies and their role in helping people heal through gender-based violence. That goal isn't to take away from survivor voices, it's to amplify them."
Vanoosterom said survivor testimonials will be shared on the screen for attendees to read.
"We'll also have all the allies around the room, holding signs and showing their support."
Typically, the event sees about 30 to 50 participants, but the centre is hoping to see more people this year.
"We want everyone to come and show their support, but we are looking for male-identified allies as it kind of highlights our program and our research with Dr. Allie Wall," said Vanoosterom. "It shows anyone who's been affected by gender-based violence, specifically sexual harm, that they're not alone and it's not solely a women's issue -- it's a community issue, and seeing the male-identified folks stand up with that support can be very impactful."
Dr. Wall will be the special guest during Thursday's event. As the lead researcher of the Strong Allies Stronger Communities project, Wall will discuss allyship and how it can be incorporated in workspaces.
Vanoosterom said the project, held in partnership with Lambton College, is dedicated to creating educational programs that tackle the growing issue of gender-based violence in Sarnia-Lambton.
The research project works alongside local leaders and groups, including BASES (Bluewater Association for Safety, Environment, and Sustainability) to better understand the problem and find lasting solutions.
Take Back the Night will end with a march downtown.
Pre-registration is not required. Vanoosterom said signs will be available for guests to hold or they can bring their own.
