Men strut in heels against domestic violence

Annual "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes"

LA CROSSE, Wis. — Hundreds of area men are taking a stand against domestic violence, challenging the stigma that it is a women’s issue.

On Thursday, they slipped on a pair of red high heels and walked two laps around Riverside Park to raise awareness about sexual assault and domestic violence.

It’s the third year of the event, which also serves as a fundraiser for the YWCA of the Coulee Region and the Carilee Fund of the Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation, which provides resources for women struggling to leave abusive relationships.

Last year the walkers raised more than $400,000; this year organizers are hoping for $600,000.

Tom Brock raised more than $500 in his second year walking and believes this event makes a point.

“We did this last year, and the first time around the park was tough, and the second time around was excruciating and we get it now,” said Brock.

Women also joined the walk this year as “Sole Sisters.”

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