It's a sad reality, but nearly 75% of people know some one who is or has been a victim of domestic violence (Statistic from the Domestic Violence Resource Center). In an effort to take a stand against the issue, students from the University of Wisconsin Marathon County are partnering with the Women's Community for a rally called "Take Back the Night."

Friday's event is free and open to the public - starts at 5:45 p.m. The rally will include a keynote speech from a current UWMC student titled "Erin's Story of Forgiveness." An awareness march around the campus will follow. The will end with a candle light vigil.

Last April the students organized a similar anti-violence event at the campus.

If you ever find yourself in a domestic violence situation, the Women's Community has a free 24 hour hot-line you can call (1-888-665-1234). They say every call is confidential and answered by trained volunteers and staff. They can help you with information about safety planning, referrals, sexually assault services, and more.

**Since domestic violence plays a role in so many people's lives, here are a few important things you should know.**

- Warning signs to show you know:
1.) Are you afraid of your partner?
2.) Do you feel unsafe in your home?
3.) Have you been sexually assaulted?
4.) Are you concerned about your child?
(Warning signs from the Women's Community)

- Women accounted for 85% of the victims of intimate partner violence, men for approximately 15% (Bureau of Justice Statistics Crime Data Brief, Intimate Partner Violence)

- Separated and divorced males and females are at a greater risk of nonfatal intimate partner violence.
(Bureau of Justice Statistics, Intimate Partner Violence in the U.S.)

- Women of all races are about equally vulnerable to violence by an intimate partner.
(Bureau of Justice Statistics, Violence Against Women)

- Nearly 2.2 million people called a domestic violence crisis or hot line in 2004 to escape crisis situations, seek advice, or assist someone they thought might be victims (National Network to End Domestic Violence).