Local men will don their finest and highest-heeled shoes Saturday, April 14 and walk down Main Street in a symbolic gesture of support and solidarity as part of SARC's 4th annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes.
Registration for the walk begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Bel Air Armory at 41 N. Main St., Bel Air. This year's honorary chair is Harford County Council President Billy Boniface.
To register to walk and to build your own team, visit SARC's website, http://www.sarc-maryland.org. The walker registration fee is $25 per walker (non-tax-deductible). Male walkers will be provided with shoes while supplies last. From the website, walkers can pay the $25 registration fee, start or join a team, set a goal and begin raising money. You can also search for other participants and donate toward their goals.
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes was first organized by Frank Baird in 2001. The marches have been held all over the United States to raise awareness and provide an opportunity for men and women to be part of the answer to ending the cycle of violence.
"This march gives men the opportunity to publicly demonstrate their courage and commitment to preventing sexualized violence," Baird said in a press release.
Sexual violence does not impact just women; it has a profound impact on their family, friends and the men in their life who care about them.
When asked what makes this event special, Luisa Caiazzo-Nutter, SARC's executive director stated, "SARC is excited for the opportunity to host the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event in Harford County. This is a wonderful opportunity to shine the light on the good guys, courageous men who are not afraid to look a little silly wearing women's shoes for a good cause. These guys are passionate about ending violence in our community. "
Since 1978, SARC has provided important and necessary information as well as services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and stalking in Harford County. Services include a 24-hour helpline, counseling, legal representation, a confidential safe house and community outreach and education. To learn more about SARC, call 410-836-8431 or the 24-hour helpline, 410-836-8430, or visit http://www.walkamileinhershoes.org for more information on the International Men's March.
