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APPLETON - Hundreds gathered at Lawrence University in Appleton Wednesday evening to Take Back the Night. It's a national event aimed at putting a stop to domestic abuse and sexual assault against women.

Studies show that one in four women will be a victim of sexual violence at some point in her lifetime. Students at Lawrence University say that's a statistic that needs to change.

"Take Back the Night is an event that was stared back in the '80s to raise awareness of and advocate against sexual and domestic violence against women," explained student Lauren Schulte.

Since then, the movement has grown. Marches and rallies are being held on campuses all across America.

"Women should feel safe when they're walking in the streets at night, whether alone or with a group of friends. They shouldn't feel any danger," said Schulte.

Christina Romatowski works at Harbor House, a women's domestic abuse shelter in Appleton. She says these days, the shelter is overflowing.

"Statistics from last year for us.. we saw the highest  number ever needing shelter and services. We are a 44 bed facility, and I believe on our highest census day, we had 89 people in shelter," said Romatowski.

"It's good that people feel comfortable being able to talk about it and get the help they need, but it's also sad, because it seems to be more prevalent," said student Kelsey Fischer.

Organizers are hoping events like this one will help both women and men take a stand, and put a stop to sexual and domestic violence in Wisconsin.. and all throughout the nation.