Sexual Assault Services Put On Walk A Mile In Her Shoes Event For Sexual Assault Awareness

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For nearly two decades, the Brainerd Lakes community has united to support the "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes" event, which originally began as a men's march dedicated to supporting women who have experienced sexual assault. While the initiative started in 2001 with that specific focus, it has evolved into an inclusive event open to everyone, acknowledging that while women are disproportionately affected, men also face sexual violence. This year marked a significant milestone at the Northland Arboretum in Baxter, where the event introduced a new element by kicking off with the Stilettos in Strides 5K run for the first time in its history, allowing participants to engage physically with the cause through running and walking. The atmosphere of the day was defined by both the challenging terrain and the strong sense of solidarity among attendees. Participants navigated a course filled with hills that some described as treacherous, yet they persevered to show their support for survivors and to demonstrate that the community stands together against sexual violence. Many attendees expressed that the event provided a beautiful setting with nice breezes and stunning views, but more importantly, it served as a powerful reminder that victims are seen, believed, and not alone. The presence of people walking, running, and even stepping into high heels highlighted the diverse ways individuals can contribute to raising awareness and helping survivors on their healing journeys. Beyond the physical activity, the core message of the event addressed the difficult reality that sexual assault is often a silent crime due to victim blaming and the fear of not being believed. Organizers and participants emphasized the critical need for people to speak out and understand that help is available if they reach out. The collective effort aims to change the narrative by showing that whatever happened to a survivor, others notice what is happening and are ready to provide support. Ultimately, the event sought to foster an environment where individuals feel safe coming forward, knowing that the community is committed to stopping sexual violence and ensuring that no one has to face these traumatic experiences in isolation.

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Well, for nearly 20 years, the Brainerd Lakes community has come together to support the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event. This year at the Northland Arboretum in Baxter, the event added a new element to the already meaningful day. Our reporter Xavier Curry has more details. >> Originally started in 2001, the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event is a community-driven walk focused on raising awareness and support for survivors of sexual violence. >> Well, the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes way back used to be a men's march to support women who have been sexually assaulted. And now it's for everybody because obviously a majority of women or females are sexually assaulted, but so are men. So, it's coming out to support the survivors. >> For the first time in the history of the walk, this year's event was kicked off by the Stilettos in Strides 5K run. >> Me and my friend have just gotten really into 5Ks and then her sister actually helps out with the organization that helps run this. So, I thought it would just be a good way to show my support to other women that have went through this and just kind of help other people get into 5Ks with me so cuz it's really fun to do it. So, yeah. >> It's a great cause. It's good to be out here to support other women and other sexual assault victims and just to show that, you know, we have they have community and we're here for them. So. >> A lot of hills. >> A lot of hills. Very very treacherous, but it was a great run and it's a beautiful view. It's nice breeze today. It was a great run. >> Participants here today are walking, running, and even stepping into high heels all to support awareness of sexual violence and help the work being done for survivors. >> Sexual assault is a silent crime. People don't speak out. It's really hard for people to come forward because there's still victim blaming. So, we want people to know that we're here to support them, those that are survivors, those that need to come forward, and those that have been on their healing journey forever. So, we just want them to know they're supported. >> The efforts from the community are to show victims of sexual violence that you are seen, you are believed, and you are not alone. >> I think it's important to like get out here and like show that like people notice that what is happening, that it's wrong, and like we need to stop and change it. Whatever happened to you, like people notice what's happening, and that if you like you need help, you can like reach out, people will support you, and you're like not alone. >> Reporting in Baxter, Xavier Curry, Lakeland News. >> Lynn Green placed first in the men's 15 to 19 group, with Sexton also placing first in the women's 20 to 29 age group, and Crawford coming in third. >> Lakeland News is a non-profit news organization. Donate to Lakeland PBS today to support your local news team.