BY ARINA AMINOVA
Oakville held its sixth annual Hope in High Heels event on Sunday where dozens of men walked in a woman’s shoes – literally.
About 50 boys and men, including police officers, firefighters and football players wobbled down the street wearing pink high heels to support ending violence against women.
Halton Women’s Place, a non-profit organization, holds the event every September to raise awareness about violence against women and children.
Carmella Bozzo, Development Manager at Halton Women’s Place, talked to the crowd about the significance of the annual event.
“It’s really important to continue to talk about violence against women because a lot of people think that it doesn’t happen in our community, but it does happen in all communities, including ours,” says Bozzo.
Oakville MP, John Oliver also participated for his third time in the walk.
“My hope in our lifetime is that we don’t need this shelter, we don’t need this kind of service for women,” Oliver said. “The change has to begin with men. I think that the leadership of the guys that are out today, wearing heels, is absolutely commendable. Thanks to all the men for coming out and making a statement about their commitment.”
According to Caroline Hogwood, the Chair of the Board for Halton Women’s Place, the change has to start now by educating youth about the importance of gender equality.
“We run a healthy relationships program from grade one all the way through to grade 12 to ensure that our young people learn that healthy relationships is a human right,” said Hogwood.
Participants in the Hope in High Heels event are committed to making a difference and bringing awareness about violence against women in our community.
Men and boys of all ages can participate in the annual event by singing up online at haltonwomensplace.com in September.
