Annual walk raises awareness
Dozens of men and women took to the sidewalks around the University of Missouri-Kansas City campus to reflect on the role each person has in stopping sexual assault and violence at the annual Walk A Mile in Her Shoes event.
“In light of recent events, I am reminded that raising awareness about issues like sexual assault and violence prevention is the work of a community of citizens coming together to advocate for those affected by such behavior,” UMKC Chancellor C. Mauli Agrawal said. “We are called to hold one another accountable, to call out and to stand up against those things we know are morally wrong. Even if that means withdrawing support from those with power and influence.”
The walk sheds light on the veracity of women’s experiences with sexual assault and gender violence. Events like Walk A Mile not only raise awareness about important issues, they also help raise funds for the UMKC Women’s Center and Violence Prevention and Response Program. Each of the men participating put themselves in someone else’s shoes by walking one mile in a pair of heels in a show of solidarity for women’s issues.
Scott Curtis, librarian at UMKC’s Miller Nichols Library, was guest speaker. He has been involved with the Women’s Center for many years, including serving as co-chair of Walk a Mile in Her Shoes for two years.
“Tonight, we reflect on ways we can improve the campus and the larger community,” Curtis said.
Some men who walked Thursday evening participated for specific reasons, but all were there to show support for their friends and all women.
Tyjvane Horton, senior environmental science major, walked for his mother and sisters. “I want to come out here and support them.”
Trevor Calvert, freshman pre-nursing major, said his reasons for participating were “to be an outstanding advocate for my friends who can’t advocate for themselves.”
Collin King, sophomore pharmacy major, walked with his fraternity.
“There’s a big stigma against fraternities. Me and my brothers are out here to show we are different. We won’t tolerate it.”