On Thursday, Oct. 16, at 8 p.m. on the Thompson Hall lawn, the SHARPP Center for Interpersonal Violence Awareness, Prevention, and Advocacy at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) hosted its annual Take Back the Night (TBTN) event.The SHARPP Center has been hosting TBTN annually since 1981. TBTN honors Relationship Abuse Awareness Month and provides a supportive space for those impacted by interpersonal violence (IPV).
Hot apple cider, hot chocolate and tea were provided to attendees courtesy of UNH catering. The SHARPP Center had several tables with take-home self-care kits and stations where attendees could create art and posters to support survivors of IPV and the community as a whole. Candles were also provided to audience members for the candlelight vigil portion of the event.
UNH Acapella group, The NH Notables, performed two songs at the event: “Wildflower” by Billie Eilish and “Clean” by Taylor Swift. The Notables have performed at the past two TBTN events. Shortly after the Notables’ performance, SHARPP representatives began opening remarks about the purpose of the event and guidelines for the open mic section.
The open mic portion of TBTN gave an opportunity for those impacted by IPV to share their story confidentially and without mandatory reporting. Several individuals shared their stories. Following each speaker, the crowd wordlessly snapped their fingers.
“It was a powerful display of community, and we are really happy with the safe, brave, and honest space created that night. Hearing directly from students and survivors is always so impactful, and we are grateful to the community for their willingness to come together and raise awareness for the issue of interpersonal violence on our campus,” said SHARPP Marketing Assistant Em Barrett and SHARPP Special Project Assistant Emily Overhulser.
Barrett and Overhulser hope that TBTN attendees carry the message of the event even after Oct. 16 and continue to foster supportive environments for important conversations in their everyday lives.
“Prevention, awareness, and advocacy are everyday responsibilities for all community members,” said Barrett and Overhulser.
If you are interested in learning more about the SHARPP center or becoming a Peer Advocate or Community Educator, check out their website.
Community Partners for TBTN 2025:
UNH GIVE
Diversity Support Coalition
The Beauregard Center
Undergraduate Student Senate
The New Hampshire Notables
Alpha Chi Omega
Sigma Alpha
UNH Panhellenic
Save the Children Action Network
Planned Parenthood Generation Action
New Hampshire Youth Movement
HER Campus
Psychology Club
NAMI
McLaughlin and Lord Hall Council
Stoke Hall Council
Alexander Hall Council
Hetzel Hall Council
The Department of Social Work
The Minis, Jessie Doe, and Williamson residence halls
For any students seeking support:
SHARPP Center resources are available to all. The SHARPP Center is located at Wolff House by UNH Health and Wellness. Resources include scheduling a meeting, stopping by Wolff House, or contacting the SHARPP office at (603) 862- 3494. SHARPP also has a 24/7 helpline at (603) 862-7233. The SHARPP Center offers confidential appointments and a safe space to meet with staff and representatives.
