(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – February 19, 2025) – Students across El Paso, including those from Burges High School, are taking a stand against teen dating violence by organizing the school’s first-ever Take Back the Night event. This student-led initiative aims to raise awareness, honor survivors, and promote safe and healthy relationships.
The event will take place on Thursday, February 20, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Burges High School in recognition of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. The evening will feature educational booths, self-defense demonstrations, yoga sessions, free ultrasounds, and health screenings. Attendees are encouraged to bring donation items such as feminine products, baby wipes, baby food, diapers, and formula, all of which will be distributed to local domestic violence shelters.
Event organizer Carolina Gonzalez, a Burges High School student, hopes to bring attention to the serious issue of teen dating violence while offering resources and support to survivors.
"I want my community to understand that domestic violence and sexual abuse can happen to anyone," Gonzalez said. "This event is about raising awareness, providing resources, and letting survivors know they’re not alone."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a 2021 survey from the Youth Risk Behavior Study found that among U.S. high school students who dated in the previous 12 months:
1 in 12 experienced physical dating violence
1 in 10 experienced sexual dating violence
The study also found that some teens are at greater risk than others. Female students experienced higher rates of physical and sexual violence than male students, according to study authors.
Take Back the Night is an internationally recognized movement that empowers survivors and fosters conversations about violence prevention. Gonzalez and her team have invited student councils from across El Paso to unite in support of this cause and help spread awareness.
"Teen dating violence is a serious issue, and it happens more often than people realize," Gonzalez said. "I hope this event helps people recognize the warning signs and know that there are resources available to help them."
With Take Back the Night, Burges High School students are taking an active role in creating a safer, more informed community. Through education, advocacy, and support, the event aims to empower individuals and create lasting change.