On May 30, the YWCA of Flint held its fourth annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes® fundraiser, an international men’s march to stop rape, sexual assault, and gender violence. The men of Genesee County showed their solidarity with women by literally walking a mile in “her” shoes. Yes, to accompany the light rain that fell that evening, Downtown Flint was also “raining men” in women’s shoes. Onlookers watched in awe as several men of recognition including doctors, lawyers, news-anchors, politicians and businessmen of the Flint community flooded the streets in high heels, wedge sandals and flats alike.
Flint podiatrist Dr. David Taylor had previously noted in the event’s press release that as a podiatrist, he would “normally never recommend wearing high heels,” but that Walk a Mile was a cause he could support. He stated that “domestic violence and sexual assault are not gender-specific; they affect both men and women. Therefore it is all of our responsibility to do what we can to stop these crimes from happening.”
The mile-long route wound from the YWCA to 501 Bar & Grill, where an after-party was held. Participants pledge contributions of at least $50 each. Over $16,500 was raised for the YWCA’s cause, $1,500 more than last year’s efforts. Event Coordinator and Chief Program and Development Officer Harmony Langford of YWCA told My City Magazine that the YWCA of Flint was pleased with the attendance and support.
“We were thrilled with the turnout of over 125 men who put on heels to walk and take a stand against domestic and sexual violence,” she said. “We could not provide services to the men, women and children of Genesee County without the support of this community.”
PHOTOS BY TRACI TURNER
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