Debra Fulenchek, Clinical Counselor/ Wellness Coordinator, has put on the “Take Back the Night” march at Southeastern for five years now, and has always had a great turn out with more and more people joining the walk every year.

This event is nationwide taking place on the first Monday of every October. This year’s march was celebrating 30 years and the Crisis Control Center have been hosting this event for 28 years.

Southeastern students, faculty and community members marched down to Main Street in Durant, Okla. to the 2017 Candlelight Vigil, hosted by the Crisis Control Center.

October 2, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. the Candlelight Vigil began with introductions from Crisis Center staff member, Eileen Meadows. The first introduction was Mayor Jerry Tomlinson, who made proclamation to declare October as domestic violence awareness month.

The impact of domestic violence and a personal reflection were given by two Southeastern students, Lucina Dunn and Kalli Winters.

Casey Stone, Worship Leader at The River church sang “Courageous” by Casting Crowns. Informing the audience that we as people “were made to be courageous.”

Durant Police Chief, Don Hyde, spoke about his opinions on domestic violence and offered advice to the audience.

Durant community member, Tascha Bond told her story of being a victim. Bond’s story was more than a “victim story.” Rather, Bond used her story to offer a sense of hope and healing to the audience.

A poem, “Unbroken Vows” was spoken by Crisis Control Center staff member, Lisa Tomlinson.

The Candlelight Vigil came to an end with a candle lighting and a moment of silence.