On behalf of the Women’s Center, Gender & Sexuality Student Services, and the Access & Equity Office, we would like to invite you to our annual Day of No Silence to Take Back the Night event, Part Two! Through this, we aim to continue uplifting survivors and stand up against all forms of violence and bullying of those with real or perceived marginalized gender and sexual identities.

The annual Day of No Silence is a day of action to protest against and spread awareness about LGBTQIA+ bullying and harassment in schools and beyond. Previously, throughout the day, a silent protest signified the silencing of LGBTQ+ people and the silence of others during these acts. Staying silent is not what we need. In alignment with GLSEN, the founding organization of Day of Silence, we are shifting from a passive, symbolic protest to an active, vocalized call to action and call to our UIS community as a whole. The Part One of the event, "Day of No Silence", is to take place throughout the day on Friday, April 17th, 2026.

For Part Two, the march and rally (open mic) are part of our annual Take Back the Night portion, which focuses on taking a stand against gender-based violence and sexual violence. This is an act of reclamation, as the night SHOULD be safe for all people to exist, regardless of who they are.

We ask that those wishing to participate in the 10-15 minute march*, to meet at the UIS Colonnade by 6:55pm on Friday, April 17th, 2026. The march will conclude at the Student Union, where the rally will occur. The rally will follow directly after in the Student Union North Ballroom (3rd Floor). During the open mic, individuals are able to read poems, sing a song, speak their truth, or share words of solidarity. Teal is the official color of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and we encourage participants to wear it in support!

This event is open to all UIS students, faculty, and staff. We ask that pictures and videos not be taken during the march or rally.

For questions or accommodations in advance, please contact womenscenter@uis.edu or 217-206-7173.

*In case of rain, the march will be cancelled and we will begin the rally (open mic) at 7pm.