Thursday evening, nearly 500 people took to the streets of downtown Bowling Green for a Take Back the Night March on sexual violence.

"We have the power. We have the right. The streets are ours. Take back the night," chanted the participants of the march.

"Sexual violence is pretty prevalent in society now in days," said Elizabeth Mohon, Western Kentucky University's Sexual Assault Services coordinator. "One in three females and one in six males will be the victim of a sexual assault in their lifetime. So, whether or not you know it, chances are you know someone who's been a victim."

Men, women, children, and even several four-legged friends joined together Thursday night for a special cause.

"The main purpose is to create an awareness and to create a visual opportunity to let people know that we're not going to stand for sexual violence," said Mohon.

Another purpose was also on the minds of those at the march concerning all children.

"We hope we can protect them from the crime, from the ugliness, but the truth is that it's out there and we want to make sure that we let them know that we can do something to stop the violence," said Leyda Becker of Hope Harbor, speaking to all present at the march.

Local organizations, clubs, and other various community groups from Bowling Green and WKU wore their "Take Back the Night" T-shirts with pride as they filled the streets for a one mile march.

"It just involves people chanting and marching and taking the streets of Bowling Green to stand against sexual violence," said Mohon.

With a motorcycle escort and police cruisers blocking the streets, the march began and ended at the Justice Center and travelled around Fountain Square Park.

The march was followed by a candlelight vigil along with music and the opportunity for all to speak if the desired.

For more information on how to receive help if you are or know a victim of sexual violence click here.