INUVIK - After surviving three abusive relationships, one Inuvik mother thought it was about time to join the annual Take Back the Night march along Mackenzie Road on Sept. 17.

"It means something to me this year," she said. "I thought it was important to experience the entire event."

A group of residents carry signs and chant slogans against family violence as they take part in the annual Take Back the Night march on Sept. 17. - Andrew Rankin/NNSL photo

Her last episode of abuse finally ended earlier this year. The divorce is finalized and her ex-husband remains in jail.

She was lucky enough to have a plan to escape the relationship along with the support of family and friends. Her first exposure to abuse came when she was a teenager in her first serious relationship. That gave her extra incentive to join the close to 40 parade participants, who were mostly women showing their intolerance of domestic abuse.

"It's important to me because I know that abuse is out there and I hope young people can be empowered to see the early warning signs and have the strength to stay out of those situations," the woman said.

Take Back the Night is an international event that aims to bring awareness to sexual assault and domestic violence.

At the end of the parade, participants came together at Ingamo Hall. Some shared their stories of abuse while others were there just to show their support.

Ann Kasook, executive director of Inuvik Transition House which provides a safe shelter for locally abused women and their children, organized this year's event and said she was pleased with the participation.

She said she was proud of the courage women showed by marching along, refusing to be silenced by violence and providing a model for women needing an extra push to get out of abusive relationships.

"I think it's a big problem not only in Inuvik but everywhere," said Kasook. "It's important for us to be visible to see and to help the community be aware of the violence. It's about education for the community."

Kasook has experienced her fair share of tragedy as a result of domestic abuse. Her aunt and cousin were both killed by violent men.

She said with only four full-time staff at the 11-bed shelter, she and her colleagues have little time to get out into the community to raise awareness about domestic abuse. She said the community has to work together to try to combat the problem.

Although the annual march won't eliminate domestic violence, she said it's a start.

"It's a little part of what we can offer, to be fully involved with Take Back the Night," Kasook said. "We hope people recognize that and take action."