On Sunday, men of London donned pairs of bright red high heels and walked around Victoria Park for Avona’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event. Participants in the event collect pledges that go towards services for women who have suffered abuse.
Mayor Ed Holder was among the men marching in high heels on Sunday
This year’s event raised more than $14,000, but Jeremy Mcneil, who has participated in the event for the last 8 years and is a professor at Western, believes that there is a huge group of people he wishes were more involved in the event.
“You know it’s surprising we don’t see teams from [Western and Fanshawe]. You’ve got the police, you’ve got the firemen. Having a large contingent coming from two of the main institutions where there are thousands of people, many of whom are now or have been subjected to the things that we’re fighting against, [would help].”
Mcneil went on to say that he has noticed participation in the event go down in recent years, though donations have stayed near the same. He hopes next years turnout can grow if young people hear his call to action.
Pamela Alidi poses with her award outside Centennial Hall
First-time participant, 71-year-old Pamela Alidi, says that this issue is incredibly important to her.
“The walk is not bad at all. I am 71 years old and the mile just flew by. I really really enjoyed it. And it goes to such a good cause. Unfortunately, I had a mother that was abused, a sister, a best friend, and a niece. So this is very dear to my heart. And next year I’m going to raise more money.”
Alidi, having raised more than $300, was honoured at the event as the female participant to raise the most funds.
