If not for the clip-clopping of their high heels on the pavement, they would have looked pretty manly strutting down Main Street.
A dozen men donned four-inch high heels for Walk A Mile In Her Shoes, raising awareness and funding in the battle against gender inequality and violence against women.
“Making it a fun event makes it easier to talk about such a serious subject,” said Colleen Arnold, organizer of the event, held last Friday, June 27.
Taking place during Trout Festival’s Main Street Days, Walk A Mile In Her Shoes generated about $5,000 to benefit the Women’s Safe Haven operated by the Women’s Resource Centre.
Each of the participants collected pledges to walk from Pioneer Square down Main Street before looping onto Hapnot Street and back to Pioneer.
Aside from their fancy footwear, they waved placards bearing messages such as “Put Yourself In Her Shoes” and “Rape Hurts All Of Us.”
Arnold said it’s important to get men involved in the cause, as they will be more likely to speak out against violence against women.
Stumbles
Though there were a few stumbles and sore feet, the men managed surprisingly well in oversized red shoes built especially for guys.
Dozens of onlookers smiled and giggled as they watched the guys manoeuvre their way down Main Street. Some snapped photos, smiled or jokingly catcalled.
The trophy for the top fundraiser went to Father Paul Bringleson, who collected over $1,400.
In the three years Walk A Mile In Her Shoes has run, the event has brought in over $24,000 for the Safe Haven, which provides a sanctuary for abused women and children.
