(CNS Local Life): The Cayman Islands Crisis Centre (CICC) has opened registration for the fourth annual “A Walk in Her Shoes”. The event, taking place from 5pm on 8 March at Camana Bay, celebrates International Women’s Day, aiming to raise funds and awareness to support the Crisis Centre’s mission to end domestic violence in the Cayman Islands.
Ania Milanowska, CICC Executive Director, explained in a press release that “A Walk in Her Shoes” is Cayman’s version of the internationally acclaimed “Walk A Mile in Her Shoes”, an International Men’s March held annually in the US to raise awareness of gender violence.
“As any woman can tell you, walking in high heels is not the easiest task. This event brings together men throughout the community to take a stand and raise awareness about gender relations and violence against women,” Milanowska said. “This year, to commemorate our 16th anniversary, the event has a “Sweet Sixteen” theme and the men are encouraged to don their sparkliest pair of heels.”
The funds raised from this year’s event will support the Crisis Centre’s goal to construct a new, purpose-built shelter. “Our goal for this year’s ‘A Walk In Her Shoes’ is to raise more than CI$55,000,” said Michelle Lockwood, CICC chair of the fundraising committee. “It’s an ambitious goal but these funds are desperately needed to ensure we can support local victims of domestic violence with a purpose-built facility, as we have currently outgrown our current shelter.”
The registration fee is CI$25 per person. Each participant will walk a maximum five laps and a minimum of one lap, depending on donations collected. For every $150 raised, the walker can deduct one lap. Each entrant has to walk in a pair of ladies’ shoes, and organisers encourage participants to add lots of bling, as well as paint their toenails, and wear wigs and dresses.
To register online go to the event’s page on the CICC website. For details on the event, email Michelle Lockwood at michelle.c.lockwood@gmail.com or fundraising@cicc.ky
For more information about the Crisis Centre, go to the CICC website. In addition, the 24-hour crisis line is always available at 943-CICC (2422).
How much did they raise? Sadly, the year is 2019 and the Cayman Islands is not a developing country, yet the violence agains women is rampant.
P.S.
CNS, is it my eyes, or the print is blurry ( when I type my comment)?
CNS: I think it’s your eyes, but I need my eyes tested too, so I can’t say for sure.
Domestic violence is an issue that affects both men and women so it is a disservice to only focus on one gender when dealing with this issue. In fact, men are oftentimes the silent victims of domestic violence so it is important that the issue is dealt with in a comprehensive manner.