Washburn’s Inter-Fraternity Council and Student Activities and Greek Life teamed up with the YWCA of Topeka Oct. 1 to host “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes.” Male participants showed up to the East Union Lawn Saturday morning to support and raise funds for the local YWCA aiding survivors of domestic violence.

After participants donned their heels and stilettos of choice, the event began with messages from coordinators who helped organize the event. Jessica Barraclough, director of SAGL, asked participants to adhere to her number one rule “no hospitals” and described the event as a kick-off for Week Without Violence. Michelle McCormick, director of YWCA’s Center for Safety and Empowerment, then described how events like “Walk a Mile” show solidarity with survivors and noted events going on through the month of October such as the Purple Purse Campaign to benefit survivors of violence. Finally, Eric Grospitch, vice president of student life, talked about the relevance of these issues of violence and the general importance of consent.

Joined by Grospitch and James Barraclough, director of undergraduate initiatives, the participants – in their heels – took off on a mile-long course around campus. Cheered on by organizers, students and staff members there to support, all of the participants successfully completed the course before collapsing to the ground and releasing their feet from the stilettos.

For more information about the Topeka YWCA’s events for Week Without Violence, visit http://www.ywcaneks.org/site/c.7oIEJRPrGdIYF/b.9459177/k.6BD3/Week_Without_Violence.htm For more information about the Purple Purse campaign, visit http://www.ywcaneks.org/site/c.7oIEJRPrGdIYF/b.9458407/k.AAF4/Purple_Purse.htm.