Discussion List for campus-based and allied personnel working to end gender-based violence on campus.

["Chad Sniffen" <>]

Hello Christina,
 
I am somewhat concerned about the nature of this shift in strategy for Take
Back the Night Inc., and I was hoping that you might be willing to address
these concerns. I am directing this question to you because I see that you
are on TBTN Inc.'s Board, but if there is a more appropriate person to ask
please let me know.
 
At the conference solicitation page you sent the link to, the third
attendance requirement reads "Your school or organization must hold an
official Take Back The Night Event in 2010"
 
Although I have been aware of the existence of TBTN Inc. for many years,
this is the first time I have become aware of TBTN Inc. making a move to
brand grassroots TBTN events as "official" ... perhaps this is something
that TBTN Inc. has been doing for a while and I have just not been aware it.
 
So, my concern is: what does it mean to be an "official" event? What does it
mean to be an "unofficial event"? Also, (insert ominous music here) is it
the intent of TBTN Inc. to eventually claim trademark violations against
"unofficial" TBTN events?
 
Please understand that I assume that the staff and board of TBTN Inc. have
the best of intentions, and sincere passion for the empowerment of survivors
of sexual violence. As someone who has helped to organize many TBTNs, I hope
that you are willing to assume the same of me. However, as someone who is
also very attached to the concept of TBTN as a grassroots, community driven
event... I hope you can understand why I would be concerned about attempts
to standardize or corporatize this powerful part of the movement to end
sexual violence.
 
Perhaps you might include in your reply how TBTN Inc. adds value to the work
of grassroots TBTN events?
 
Best,
Chad