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Hi, I’m Remie! As a third-year student at the University of Exeter, I’ve had the privilege of attending Reclaim the Night for the past two years, and this year, I’m more excited than ever to join the march again. For me, this event has become not just an annual tradition but a deeply meaningful way to connect with my community and stand in solidarity with women and marginalized groups. Here’s why I’m marching and why I think you should too:
1. Supporting the Community
One of the main reasons I continue to march every year is because it’s such a wonderful way to support the Exeter community. Reclaim the Night is about more than just a walk through the city; it’s a statement. It’s an opportunity to show that we will not accept violence, harassment, or discrimination, and that our streets belong to everyone, no matter their gender. Marching with friends, classmates, and strangers, all united by a common cause, is powerful. It's a reminder that we’re all in this together.
2. Meeting New People
Every year, I meet new faces, whether they’re students from different years, members of the local community, or people from all walks of life who share the same passion for equality and justice. The sense of camaraderie is incredible, and it’s amazing to see how many people in Exeter care about creating a safer, more inclusive environment. Whether it's at the banner-making event on December 3 or on the night of the march itself, the connections I’ve made with like-minded people have been a highlight of my university experience.
3. It's Fun and Empowering
Marching at Reclaim the Night isn’t just about serious activism—it’s also a lot of fun. There’s something really uplifting about coming together with others to dance, chant, and share in the joy of solidarity. The atmosphere is full of energy and excitement, and the excitement builds as we walk through the streets, making our presence felt. For me, it’s also an opportunity to let go of any frustration or anger I’ve built up over the year, as I join with others to demand change. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of joy in activism—there’s strength in coming together, having fun, and knowing we’re doing something important.
4. It's Emotional and Empowering
While the march is fun, it’s also deeply emotional. Every year, I find myself reflecting on the stories I’ve heard from others in the community. Whether it’s through personal accounts or speeches, the bravery and strength of those who speak out always leaves me feeling inspired. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much more work there is to do. Reclaim the Night has taught me that activism doesn’t always have to be a solitary endeavour—it can be a collective experience where we can feel empowered by our shared voices and our shared cause.
5. Learning from Others in the Community
One of the most meaningful parts of Reclaim the Night for me is hearing from the individuals who make up the community. The march always ends with a few closing speeches in the centre of town. Whether it’s hearing personal stories or listening to speeches and performances, every year I’m reminded that this issue affects people in different ways, and it’s important to amplify those voices. There’s such a rich diversity of experiences within the community, and every year I learn something new—something that helps shape my understanding of what it means to fight for a world where everyone can feel safe and empowered.
Get Involved!
If you’ve never been to Reclaim the Night or if you’ve only ever thought about it in passing, I encourage you to join us this year. Whether you're a first-year or a final-year student, or a member of the wider Exeter community, this is an event where everyone’s voice matters. The march is a powerful act of defiance and support, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the solidarity we share.
Before the march itself, don’t forget about the banner-making event on 3rd December! The Guild is organizing this for our students and more information can be found on the Fixr page and keep an eye out for reminders on our Instagram. It’s a great way to get creative, meet new people, and prepare for the big night ahead. Plus, it's always fun to see what different groups come up with to express their support for the cause. Let’s make this year’s Reclaim the Night the biggest and most empowering one yet!