Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

On Saturday, April 21, I had the privilege of attending the 5th Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event in Stockton, California. Men literally walked a mile in women’s shoes to protest rape, sexual assault and gender violence. Last year, more than 100 men participated in the walk, and this year, there was an even larger turn out! Walk a Mile in Her Shoes challenged men to walk one mile in a pair of women’s shoes to raise awareness and funds to support the Women’s Center’s services for sexual assault victims. The purpose of the march is to raise awareness and to involve men in ending rape, sexual assault and gender violence.

I also had the privilege of creating my own team to walk in this event, which represented my organization, "Saving Stephanie." I had 10 men walk on my team, along with other friends and members of my family come out to walk along side of us and offer their support.  I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I had to be a part of this wonderful event, and am even more grateful that so many men came out to participate!

Some members from my "Saving Stephanie" team.

Even University of the Pacific's mascot came out to walk in heels!

Update!

First, I would like to apologize for my neglect towards this blog. But, more importantly, I would like to update you on all of the exciting things that I have done recently to promote sexual assault awareness, and my organization.

• I was a guest speaker at the "Strive for Strength" girl's retreat, where I presented my education presentation/safety plan, and performed my theater production "Speak Out," that I wrote and directed.
• I was the key note speaker at University of the Pacific's Take Back the Night event.
• I spoke at the Soroptomist International luncheon.
• I was the EMCEE at Sing for Their Supper, where I had the opportunity to speak about my organization.
• I worked with the Gospel Center Rescue Mission in doing the Clothesline Project.
• I won the title of Miss San Joaquin County's Outstanding Teen 2012, and will compete for Miss California's Outstanding Teen 2012 this June. Through the Miss America organization, I have been given numerous opportunities to promote my personal platform, "Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention."

I am also excited to be creating my own "Saving Stephanie "walking team for this years "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes" event on April 21st. This is an event in which men walk in high heels to support sexual assault survivors, and to promote sexual assault awareness!

On April 28th, I will also be making a public appearance at the Stockton Asparagus festival. Lucky for me, this is another great way to educate others about sexual violence, because it is also Denim Day! I have made denim ribbons that will say, "Why Denim?", that I will pass out along with emergency information cards, and an explanation of what Denim Day is all about.

I look forward to all of the other events I am planning, and am looking forward to keeping you updated. Meanwhile, enjoy some more photos! :)

Strive for Strength Retreat:

Take Back the Night:

 Soroptomist International Luncheon:

The Clothesline Project: