MUNCIE, Ind. – Alpha Chi Omega, a Ball State University organization, brought a metaphor to life on Tuesday.
Relay races took place at the Brown Family Amphitheater, sparking conversations and educating attendees. The event aimed to encourage support not just on campus but throughout Muncie.
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence and sexual violence.
The phrase “You never truly understand another person’s experience until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes” took on a literal meaning.
Participants, including men, ran relay races in high heels. Men wearing heels symbolized an understanding of women’s challenges.
“We are there for them no matter what, in whatever capacity that they need from us, and that’s what I want to do for other women,” according to Angel Yelton, the vice president of philanthropy.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 58% of college students say they don’t know what to do to help someone who is a victim of dating abuse.
The organization works hand-in-hand with the Center of Survivor Support to provide anyone with resources.
Efforts to raise awareness aren’t limited to Ball State University students. Alpha Chi Omega reached out to the Muncie community by contributing proceeds to A Better Way.
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes raised $290 in donations for the organization.
“It was fun to win an award and learn more about A-Chi-O as a sorority and the Walk a Mile and what it’s really for,” said Drew Lapenta, a student on the winning team.
The team of four won a hand-painted paddle to remind them of their contributions.
For more information about Alpha Chi Omega and its upcoming events, visit on Instagram.
Contact Lauren Burris with comments at Lauren.burris@bsu.edu.
