The R.J. Lalonde Arena will be flooded with bright red high heels during the Dr. Margaret Savage Crisis Centre's (DMSCC) Walk a Mile in Her Shoes.
The centre will look to build on last year's successful walk, when they hold their second local event at the Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs game intermission on Saturday, Feb. 24.
“Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an international men's movement to help create awareness surrounding domestic violence... This is something that takes place around the world, and it's great because it gets men involved in the conversation,” explained Serina Parsons, resource development coordinator for DMSCC.
Anyone who plans to strut their stuff may want to buy a pair of shoes to practice in first. While it's all in the spirit of fun and raising awareness, participants can expect the full experience when they strap on their pair of red heels.
“You don't really know what someone's going through until you've walked a mile in their shoes. Those shoes aren't going to be comfortable. They're made for men, but it's not easy walking in them. It's fun, but it gets the men thinking, ‘Hey, this hurts. There's a point behind what we're doing here,'” Parsons said.
Those who register to participate in the walk will have the chance to fundraise, for the DMSCC.
Organizers hope adding a little competitive edge to this year's walk will provide a boost in funds and help get more people talking about what can often be an uncomfortable topic
“One of the great aspects of this, is we get to challenge each other. It would be great to see the RCMP challenge the firefighters, or for one group of teachers to take on another. It's great to get that friendly rivalry going. We also have our big red shoe award, which comes with a lot of bragging rights for whoever can raise the most,” detailed Parsons.
Last year, members of the local fire department, RCMP detachment, and Mayor Gene Sobolewski, highlighted some of the community figures to participate in the walk.
DMSCC expects the same kind of participation from dignitaries and various organizations throughout the community, as they continue to grow the annual event.
“Last year was a really fun way to start the conversation, and I think people enjoyed seeing men walk around in high heels. It's important to have men in public positions participate... That shows they understand what we do and what victims of gender-based violence go through. I imagine we'll get the same support this year, and hopefully even more,” said Parsons.
The walk is open to all ages and there's no minimum fundraising requirement. Anyone interested in participating can contact the DMSCC over the phone, or by email to request a registration package.
After finding success establishing the event last year, DMSCC hopes to see an equally strong contribution from the community this time around.
“We really hope to see groups engage in friendly fundraising rivalries, and we encourage women to challenge the men in their lives to participate,” expressed Parsons. “Are they brave enough to walk a mile in your shoes?”
