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Monday, May 20, 2013 | 9:20 a.m.

Posted: 6:00 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013

Third Occupy Steubenville rally held; supporters brave frigid temperatures

By NEWS9

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio —

Hundreds of people braved the elements Saturday for the third Occupy Steubenville rally in support of the alleged victim in the Steubenville teen rape investigation. Supporters said this rally's purpose was to show community pride and to end all bullying, violence, rape and assault on people.

Rally organizers said "we're here peacefully. We're here to show unity," as a sea of people stood at the Jefferson County court house.

"I'm here to support Jane Doe. That's my only reason, is that I support this young lady, and I want her to know that a whole bunch of people got her back," said Schwa, who has attended all of the rallies.

A moment of silence was also held for the two homicide victims who died from gunshot wounds earlier this week. Supporters then hugged one another to music to show togetherness in their purpose.

"We want her to know that this happens way too often to too many innocent, beautiful people. No one should ever be taken advantage of or hurt or raped," said Mush, who has attended all of the rallies.

Signs filled the area -- some marked with "Stand up and stand out. No bullying." All of the signs held were to bring attention to assault, rape, violence and bullying.

At the last rally, supporters said about 50 people shared their stories of rape, and those who attended were encouraged to share again. Travelers from across the nation listened in and said how the message resonated with them.

"I think it's a shame they have to say that stuff, and I'm pretty sick and tired of girls and boys getting raped," said Nora Barreca, of Maryland. "I think if we can get a movement together, that would be great."

Rally supporters said they want to show community pride and urge justice be done.

"Nothing like this should have ever happened, and it should never happen again. We need to take a stand as all people to make sure that everyone understands what love and understanding is," said Mush.

The trial for the two student teen athletes accused of raping a teenaged girl is set for March 13th. Earlier this week, the judge ruled for the county to pay the bill for a private investigator working for a defendant in the case.

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