CHARLESTON, SC (WCBD) – A rally to raise awareness and support for victims of sexual violence was held Thursday night in downtown Charleston.

“Take Back the Night” rallies are held across the country in April, which is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The tradition began in the 1970s to draw attention to violence against women.

Thursday night’s event was hosted by Tri-County SPEAKS, with guests from the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) delivering keynote addresses.

After hearing the speakers, the group marched through downtown Charleston to show support for all victims of sexual assault and violence.

Clarissa Rider, Outreach Coordinator for Tri-County SPEAKS, said the event is a good opportunity to show victims they are not alone:

“It’s just a really good opportunity to educate the public and show them that there are people who care about him, there are people it really affects and there are tons of support for people who have been through it.”

Tri-County SPEAKS has helped over 600 people in the Lowcountry in the last six months alone.

If you or someone you know needs help coping with a sexual assault, click here.