Safe Space to Present “Take Back the Night,” Other Events

BUTTE, MT - Thanks to its volunteers and supporters, Safe Space of Butte is “kicking it up a notch” later this month in its efforts to make the community aware of sexual assault and domestic violence dangers and prevention efforts.

“Break the Silence – Stop the Violence” is the theme for this year’s Take Back the Night event. Activities begin at 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 30^th, at the grand opening of the new location of Suited for Success, a Safe Space clothing assistance program. Located at 27 W. Park in Uptown Butte, Suited for Success provides professional and work-appropriate clothing free of charge to applicants who qualify. Betty’s Basement, at the same location, is Butte’s newest clothing thrift store. Also operated by Safe Space, the thrift store offers clothing and accessories for men and women. All donations support Safe Space.

There is an old saying: "You can't really understand another person's experience until you've walked a mile in their shoes." Immediately following the grand opening, area men and their families are invited to show their support for victims of domestic and sexual violence - and women at risk of becoming victims – by literally walking in women's high-heeled shoes from the new store to the Butte-Silver Bow County Courthouse. According to organizers, “It's not easy walking in these shoes, but it's fun and it gets the community to talk about something that's really difficult to talk about: gender relations and sexual violence.”

Following the walk, the traditional Take Back the Night program will begin at 5:30 p.m. on the steps of the Courthouse. As in years past, Chief Executive Paul Babb and Safe Space Police Officer of the Year Dan Murphy will address Butte’s commitment to end sexual violence. A potluck dinner and program hosted by Safe Space volunteers and staff will immediately follow at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 15 N. Idaho Street.

All events are free to the public and families are welcome. For more information contact Safe Space at 782-9807 or 782-8511.