Men throughout the valley will be squeezing into bright red stilettos and will be hobbling a mile this Wednesday, May 30 to raise awareness of violence and funds to help those in dangerous situations
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is a hosted by the Big Country Anti Violence Association (BCAVA). The event symbolizes empathy as men literally will be walking a mile, from Westview Co-op to Freson Bros., in women’s shoes. The walk is a protest against sexual assault and gender violence.
Leading up to the event, the BCAVA initiated a social media awareness campaign called Voices of Men. Photographer Athena Winchester assembled a collection of photos of prominent male community members speaking out against violence.
The event held every two years has been a success at raising awareness and funds. The last three events have raised about $32,000 These funds have been used for a number of BCAVA efforts. A couple years ago they developed Angel’s Corner, a space for quiet contemplation beside Gordon Taylor Bridge.
The funds are also used on the ground locally to help families including the Strathmore shelter where families seek refuge from violence. The funds also support Stettler Community Against Abuse, which provides sexual abuse counseling for this area.
The event begins at 11:30 a.m. and winds up with a barbecue at Freson Bros. Everyone is invited to participate. More information can be found at the BCAVA Facebook page.
