UA groups will band together tonight to “”take back the night”” and help bring attention to the issue of sexual assault against women.

“”We’re encouraging anyone to show up,”” said Katie McCallister, the program coordination intern for the Women’s Resource Center. “”People don’t realize how much of a necessity it still is that women protect themselves and regain their sense of self after an event like that.””

The Women’s Resource Center, the OASIS program and groups like the newly founded Men Against Violence are co-organizing the “”Take Back the Night”” event, which begins at 6 p.m. at the Women’s Plaza of Honor near Centennial Hall.

The internationally recognized event has been celebrated for more than 30 years.

“”I think the more we talk about these issues and the realities we bring to them, the better off we’re going to be and the better off we’ll be able to address them,”” said Zach Nicolazzo, violence prevention specialist for the OASIS program.

The list of events includes speakers, a performer, a clothesline project and sponsors giving away free prizes, as well as a solidarity march and candlelight vigil with other community organizations.

The speakers will discuss their personal experiences and about ending violence against women, McCallister said.

People who have experienced violence first-hand have the opportunity to share their stories if they wish to, she said.

Additionally, organizers will provide T-shirts on which people can express their feelings about ending violence. The shirts will be hung on a clothesline and displayed in the Women’s Plaza of Honor, McCallister said.

During the march, participants will go to Fourth Avenue, then on to Catalina Park, meeting with a community group celebrating its own take on the event.

“”It’s important because it’s everyone’s business,”” Nicolazzo said. “”A lot of times people say, ‘Oh, it’s just a women’s issue,’ but I think everyone needs to be involved in ending violence in the community.””