FWORD, or Feminists Working on Real Democracy, is again hosting the annual ‘Take Back the Night’ event. Formerly known as the Association of Women’s Students, the group changed its name to encompass all genders, and to point out issues of discrimination and abuse present within all gender groups. With ‘Take Back the Night,’ FWORD organizes “speak-outs” where victims of assault can discuss their experience with their peers.

The Miami Student editorial board supports this event, as well as the organization leading it. We find the name change to be clever and funny and we appreciate the group using the term ‘feminism’ in a way that isn’t as negative or inflammatory as it sometimes can be perceived. We also support the movement from feminism as a women’s movement to that of a more progressive idea of gender equality for all groups. We believe everyone is in some way a feminist, as they do and should feel that they have certain, unalienable rights they are entitled to regardless of gender affiliation.

We also agree that this organization and event should include men and members of the LGBTQ community, who are often forgotten as victims in the discussion of sexual assault. It is crucial for all of these groups of people to be involved in the discussion of gender equality and rape, to provide greater context for those unaware of the severity of this crime, and to provide the victims with a sense of comfort and support.

Recently, multiple highly disturbing rapes have occurred at Miami University, making it more important than ever for not only women, but all students, to be educated and aware of their decisions before, during and after their time out on the town. Students need to become empowered with education and learn about how to make good choices to avoid dangerous situations. We should become educated not as women or men but as a population, to better protect ourselves from becoming victims.