March is Women’s History Month: Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, Other Events Upcoming
March 06, 2017
Men marching in their heels at last year's ODU Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event
By: Noell Saunders
Old Dominion University's Women's Center is challenging men in the campus community to slip on a pair of heels and show support for ending sexual violence at the 9th annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event.
The walk will be held Tuesday, March 21 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Kaufman Mall.
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an international initiative. It is being held in conjunction with Women's History Month for men to help raise awareness about the effects of sexualized violence against women. It goes back to the old saying: "You can't really understand another person's experience until you've walked a mile in their shoes."
Sexual violence is a significant problem in the United States. According to a national survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 in 5 (18.3 percent) women and 1 in 71 men (1.4 percent) report experiencing rape at some time in their lives.
La Wanza Lett-Brewington, director of ODU's Women's Center, said the goal is to have the University and surrounding communities work as a team to combat the issue.
"We are raising awareness to show that violence in the community is an issue for all of us and collectively we can make a change together," Lett- Brewington said.
Heels will be available for participants to borrow at ODU's Women's Center.
Other Women's History Month events:
- March 18: Women's self-defense workshop. Old Dominion University's Women's Center offers a self-defense class every month in collaboration with the Norfolk Karate Academy. Norfolk Karate Academy, on 45th Street, 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.
- March 23: When the World Breaks Open with Seema Reza. The poet, essayist and author of "When the World Breaks Open" will speak at the ODU Virginia Beach Higher Education Center. Reza coordinates and facilitates a unique hospital arts program that encourages art as a tool of narration, self-care and socialization among a military population struggling with emotional and physical injuries. ODU Virginia Beach Higher Education Center, 12:30 p.m. to 2p.m.
- March 27: Alpha Male. The Old Dominion University Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity chapter will hold a discussion about how masculinity affects men and breaking stereotypes. Women and men are invited to participate in the discussion. Webb Center President's Dining Room, 7:06 p.m. to 9p.m.
- March 29: Women's Climb Night. Explore the world of rock climbing with friends and meet new ones. Student Recreation Center, 4 p.m. to 7p.m.
- March 30: Feminist Activist Fair. Various organizations will discuss their work and highlight resources they provide. Students, faculty and staff are welcome to attend to learn more about volunteer, internship and employment opportunities. Webb Center North Mall, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information, visit the Women's Center website.