The Daily Gamecock

March gives chance to 'walk a mile' in victims' shoes

The Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands hosted the 7th annual Walk a Mile In Her Shoes at the SC State House to raise awareness for sexual violence and prevention.Reporter: Mills Hayes

The "Walk A Mile In Their Shoes" march will fill the streets of Columbia on Thursday as the community turns out to support victims of domestic violence. The event raises money for the Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands and brings awareness to the free services provided to survivors of sexual assault and abuse.

The event, which had over 2,000 participants last year, is an opportunity for men to participate in raising awareness about sexual violence towards women by having them walk one mile in heels.

The organization’s mission is to create a powerful message through a playful way that opens up communication on sexual violence. Men, women and children are able to participate in the walk or cheer on the participants. The event will go from 5:30 to 8 p.m., with the walk beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the S.C. Statehouse.

The march is a part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and this is the seventh year STSM has hosted a walk in Columbia. In the past, notable locals such as Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin and former USC quarterback Connor Shaw have made appearances at the event.

STSM is one of 14 rape crisis centers in South Carolina, a state that consistently ranks among the worst in the U.S. for domestic violence and sexual assault.


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