Light the Night: Reclaiming Our Streets Together

Photo Credit: Adam Mays

At Kyniska Advocacy, we believe that everyone has the right to feel safe while engaging in sport and physical activity. Last month, we took that message to the streets with our "Light the Night" event—a powerful, collective run after dark that brought together an incredible community to reclaim the dark, unlit streets lost to us during the winter months and amplify the importance of visibility and safety for all runners, especially women.

‘Light the Night’ was a run conceived by SOAR in 2023 to take action to reclaim routes lost to winter. This concept was born from a conversation between two friends: Rebecca Taylor of SOAR Women and Flo Papougnot of Your Friendly Runners and Hot Boys Athletics. It's a collective movement that creates an opportunity for women to feel free and safe when running in the dark—a chance to fill dark, intimidating spaces with light and noise.

““Light the Night” isn’t just an event—it’s a movement to foster safety, belonging, and change. ”

The evening began at Interval Running with participants gathering in anticipation, ready to light up the paths and share in a sense of solidarity. As the group set off, headlamps and reflective gear transformed the dark streets into a moving constellation, a vivid reminder that we are stronger together. This event was more than just a run; it was a stand for safe, inclusive spaces.

For some, it was their first time running at night in a group, an experience that felt both liberating and empowering. One participant told us, "I was drawn here because it’s about women’s safety. I’ve never run at night like this before, and it was a chance to break through those fears surrounded by people who feel the same.” Others echoed this sentiment, sharing how safety concerns usually limit their running options, especially in winter, but that "Light the Night" created a rare opportunity to take back that freedom.

Photo Credit: Adam Mays

Our conversations with runners throughout the night highlighted how impactful events like these are for building connections and community. For new residents, it was a chance to step outside of their usual circles and meet people with shared values and goals. "This is such a supportive, friendly environment," one runner told us. "It feels good to be part of something bigger, with people who understand why safety matters so much.”

As we made our way through dimly lit paths and streets often avoided at night, we shared stories, reflected on past experiences, and, most importantly, created new memories grounded in solidarity and resilience. One participant recalled how past instances of harassment had left her feeling uneasy about running alone at night, but in this group, she felt empowered and secure.

But while "Light the Night" was a powerful symbol, the reality is that our streets remain unsafe for many. Poor street lighting continues to be a barrier, particularly for women who feel forced to avoid certain areas or stay indoors after dark. This issue affects everyone’s right to move freely and safely, yet change has been slow. That’s why we’re asking you to join us in pushing for real, lasting improvements in Edinburgh’s public spaces.

Take Action: Sign the Petition to Improve Street Lighting in Edinburgh

Our "Light the Night" event was a call for change, but we need your voice to amplify it further. We’re urging Edinburgh City Council to prioritise public safety by increasing and improving street lighting across the city, especially in poorly lit areas where people are most at risk. Safe, well-lit streets are fundamental to creating an inclusive, accessible city for all.

Please join us in this fight by signing the petition on Change.org to demand better street lighting in Edinburgh. Together, we can make our streets safer and ensure that no one feels afraid to move through their own city at night. Sign the petition here.

"Light the Night" isn’t just an event—it’s a movement to foster safety, belonging, and change. Together, we showed that our streets belong to all of us, at any hour. With each step, we demonstrated that we can shape safer spaces by coming together, challenging societal barriers, and standing up for our right to move freely.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, shared their experiences, and made this night so meaningful. We’re already looking forward to the next opportunity to run, connect, and reclaim the night as a community. Let’s keep up the momentum and work towards a city where everyone feels safe, no matter the hour.

Photo credits: Adam Mays