Friday 23-10-2026 - 16:29

This year, we’re partnering with the University of Manchester Students’ Union and Salford Students’ Union to mark the 50th anniversary of the Reclaim the Night movement, with support from the Greater Manchester Student Partnership (GMSP).

 

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What is Reclaim The Night?

Reclaim the Night began in Leeds in the 1970s as part of the Women’s Liberation Movement. Since then, marches and events have brought people together to challenge violence against women and gender-based violence, demand safer public spaces, and affirm everyone’s right to feel safe, day or night.

Fifty years on, the movement remains as important as ever. Gender-based violence continues to affect people both on and off campus, highlighting the need for continued action, awareness and solidarity.

Find out more about the history of Reclaim the Night on GMSP's most recent article: 'Bringing Manchester Together For Reclaim the Night's 50th Anniversary'.

 

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What's happening this year?

We’re hosting two opportunities to get involved in Reclaim the Night this year, giving you the chance to feel part of a community and join the march.

• Reclaim The Night: Sign Making

Before the march, Sara, your Wellbeing Officer, and Imie, your Sport Officer, are hosting a Reclaim the Night: Sign Making event to help you get ready!  Come along to get creative, chat with your officers and make your own signs for the march. There will also be resources available on night-time safety and the University’s Report and Support service.

• Reclaim The Night: March

On 12 November, we’ll meet at the University of Manchester Students’ Union, at 18:30, before setting off together for the march to Castlefield Bowl. Once we arrive, there’ll be speeches and a rally, bringing everyone together to stand in solidarity against gender-based violence and call for safer spaces for all.

 

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Why you should get involved

Reclaim the Night is also about bringing students together, building a stronger sense of community and showing the power of collective action. Whether you join the march, make a banner or simply come along to show your support, every contribution helps raise awareness and keep the conversation going.

Your Wellbeing Officer, Sara Kopazc, said:

It's Reclaim The Night 50th year anniversary, yet violence against women and gender-based violence remains an ongoing issue that affects students both on and off campus.
Getting involved is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with survivors, challenge the attitudes and behaviours that contribute to violence, and show that everyone deserves to feel safe in Manchester as the days get shorter, regardless of who you are or where you're going.

Your Sports Officer, Imie Holland, added:

This one feels more significant than ever as it shows that so much still needs to be done to make sure we feel safe. Please do reach out if you want to be involved! The more voices there are, the louder we can be, and the more we can be heard.