Walk a mile...

A lot of us have been there - your boyfriend or husband rolls his eyes when you complain about how your feet hurt in your fabulous - yet frighteningly high - heels. Now they'll know how it feels - while helping out an amazing cause.

In honour of the White Ribbon campaign, Walk a Mile in her Shoes is all about men literally walking a mile in women's shoes as a way to get people talking about violence against women.

The idea, originally from the states, helps "reframe the way (men) envision violence," explained Todd Minerson, executive director of the campaign. Many men just figure it's not their problem, that they wouldn't hit their girlfriends - so it applies to someone else. But Minerson says it's just the opposite.

"It is your problem. It's everyone's problem," he said.

About 51% of Canadian women between 16 to 65 will experience at least one act of physical or sexual violence in their life, said Minerson. People assume that because we're in a developed country, the issue isn't that prevalent.

"We're really not looking that hard," said Minerson.

The White Ribbon campaign was established in 1991 by Canadian men in response to the Montreal Massacre and now exists in over 60 countries worldwide. Their personal pledge is to "never commit, condone, or remain silent about violence against women and girls." This event is the perfect way to show you care, said Minerson.

It takes place on Thursday, October 1 from noon to 2 p.m. at Nathan Phillips Square. Visit www.walkamiletoronto.org to register and get more information. Patent pumps, strappy heels - the sky's the limit in the footwear your man decides to wear. Also, women are welcome to participate - but can wear comfortable shoes if they wish.

Come out to support a cause that affects your mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, grandmas - every woman.

By Jessica Ireland

Jessica Ireland
		About the author:
		Jessica Ireland is a “spark.” After receiving that nickname from a past co-worker, her electrifying passion and determination to produce creative ideas that people can relate to still remains an important part of her work today. She has been published in Vervegirl and B’zone magazines, The London Free Press, Prospere Magazine, and The Windsor Star. She’s currently involved in the communication and PR industry, and maintains a blog http://magazineobsessed.vox.com about the state of magazines today. She also has her eyes on new marketing campaigns, branding, social media and all things popular culture. Jessica believes style transcends trends, and that the good china should be used everyday.
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