By Selena Stevens

The free event begins at 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30, in Lexington's Triangle Park and will feature two local bands and several speakers.

Sept. 26, 2001 (Lexington, Ky.) -- The University of Kentucky Women's Studies Program is joining various agencies and state and local politicians in hosting the 12th annual Take Back the Night march and rally on Sunday, Sept. 30, in Lexington's Triangle Park.

The free event, part of the observance of Sexual Assault Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, will begin at 4 p.m. and feature the local music of The Reel World String Band and Mother Jane. Lexington Mayor Pam Miller will offer a proclamation, Fayette County Sheriff Kathy Witt will comment, and state Rep. Kathy Stein will be the evening's keynote speaker.

A moment also will be taken to remember the events and losses of Sept. 11.

Survivors of sexual and domestic violence will offer their testimony visually again this year through the Clothesline Project, T-shirts which feature direct messages and illustrations of the shattering effects of violence. Booths will offer food and information about resources, products and services relating to personal safety, healthful living and citizen empowerment.

After the march through downtown, the event will conclude with a candlelight vigil and an open-air forum for survivors and others to speak about matters of violence and recovery.

All members of the community are invited to join in the march and rally to speak out about violence against women.