Local men will once again be strutting their stuff in red high heels in order to put domestic violence in the spotlight.
On Friday, March 1, the Dr. Margaret Savage Crisis Centre (DMSCC) will be holding the third annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes during the Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs game.
Cindy Yang, resource development coordinator for the DMSCC, noted the international event is meant to start conversations about a tough topic.
“The focus is to really get men in the community to help bring awareness to the issue of family violence,” she said, adding locals are being encouraged to participate.
The fundraiser pulls on the phrase ‘you can’t really understand a person’s experience until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.’
“We’re literally asking men to walk a mile in women’s high-heeled shoes... It’s a fun way to get the community talking about something that’s really difficult to talk about,” explained Yang.
Leading up to the game, those involved will be collecting pledges that will go toward the DMSCC community outreach program in Bonnyville.
So far, Town of Bonnyville Mayor Gene Sobolewski, Coun. Chad Colbourne, Bonnyville peace officer Shaz Khan, and Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority (BRFA) fire chief Jay Melvin have signed up to don the iconic red heels during the event.
“I think as a society, we have to recognize that domestic violence is an issue and it’s not acceptable. We all have to do what we can to try and mitigate the issue,” expressed Sobolewski.
The DMSCC approached the Pontiacs about hosting the walk in conjunction with a home game as a way of reaching local fans and creating a partnership with the team.
“We thought it was a great idea for a good cause. It’s something we’re happy to bring attention to, and provide a platform for them to be able to show off the people that go out, wear the shoes, and walk the mile,” noted Robb Hunter, director of business operations for the Pontiacs.
While they won’t be wearing the heels themselves, the Pontiacs will be sporting red skate laces during the game to show their support for the cause.
Yang said, although the fundraiser is aimed at men, they’re encouraging everyone interested in strutting their stuff to get involved.
“It’s not just isolated to men. We’re welcoming children and women in the community as well.”
If you aren’t comfortable in the heels, other arrangements can be made.
“If they want to participate in the walk, but the heels are out of their comfort zone, we can accommodate with slippers or red shoes,” Yang said.
Those interested in participating can reach Yang via email at [email protected] or by phone at 780-594-0430 ext. 834.
