KENT—Surrounded by the quiet beauty of fall’s changing colors, Project SAGE and Kent Land Trust recently co-hosted the second annual Take Back the Hike event.
The Oct. 19 event welcomed 24 participants to Kent Land Trust’s Skiff Mountain trails for a day of empowerment, community, and advocacy.
The event, organized in partnership between Project SAGE, the Kent Land Trust and Kent Park and Recreation, aimed to bring awareness to the persistence of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as the therapeutic and healing power of nature.
Hikers gathered at Skiff Mountain South Preserve to embark on a three-mile hike across Skiff Mountain to the Harrison overlook, embracing both the beauty of the outdoors and the strength found in community action.
Take Back the Hike is inspired by the broader Take Back the Night movement, which advocates for survivors of abuse and violence.
This year’s event marked another milestone in strengthening the connection between environmental conservation and social justice, highlighting the right of everyone to access safety both at home and in natural spaces.
The Kent Land Trust played a pivotal role in providing access to the trails and organizing the hike.
“Our mission is not only to preserve the land but also to make it a place where all members of the community can feel safe and supported,” said Michael Hallows, chairman of the Kent Land Trust Board of Directors.
“It was an honor to hike with my community on such a beautiful day and support victims of domestic violence,” said Matt Busse, Kent Park and Recreation director.
Among the attendees was State Representative Maria Horn (D-64th), who joined local residents and supporters in emphasizing the importance of maintaining safe and accessible outdoor spaces for solace and well-being.
“We are thrilled by the turnout and grateful to have State Representative Maria Horn and Bergen Battiston from the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence with us today,” said Virginia Gold, director of client services of Project SAGE.
“The support from both state leaders and the local community reflects a shared commitment to protecting both the environment and the people who live within it,” she said.
Participants gathered at the Harrison overlook where they asked questions and Project SAGE provided information about the resources available to survivors of domestic violence.
Participants also brought donations of toiletries and other necessities for the Project SAGE shelter.
“The partnership between Project SAGE and Kent Land Trust has created an event that resonates deeply with the values of community, safety and conservation.“ said Melissa Cherniske, program manager of the Kent Land Trust.
“We are already planning next year’s Take Back the Hike and are excited to continue building on this meaningful tradition,” she said.
For more information on Project SAGE, click here. To learn more about the Kent Land Trust, click here.
