UMW P.A.T.H. & Women's Resource Center Hosts “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” Event

DILLON, MT – The phrase “Walk a Mile in My Shoes” took on a new meaning Thursday afternoon as the University of Montana Western’s P.A.T.H. (Peers Advocating Towards Health) and the Women’s Resource Center held their second annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event. This initiative is part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and aims to raise awareness about sexual violence, gender-based violence, and the critical importance of supporting survivors.

Participants were encouraged to don high heels and navigate a course that began at UMW, traveled down Atlantic Street to the Catholic Church, and returned to campus. The event drew a diverse group of participants, including officers from the Dillon Police Department and firefighters from the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department, who joined in the spirit of the event by sporting flashy heels and strutting their stuff to help raise awareness.

A highlight of the event was a heartfelt speech delivered by sexual assault survivor Cherie Lewis, who shared her personal experiences and underscored the invaluable support provided by victim advocates throughout her journey. “Having this type of support is essential for survivors,” Lewis expressed, reminding attendees of the importance of community involvement in raising awareness and assisting those affected by sexual violence.