Annual walk shines light on sexual assault

LITCHFIELD — If you notice a group of men wearing red high heels and parading around the Litchfield Green next month, don’t think twice.

The choice of footwear is purposeful, and the group will use it to draw attention to their cause while they walk in support of the Torrington-based Susan B. Anthony Project.

According to Gina Devaux, the SBA Project’s director of development, the mission of the “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event is to increase awareness of issues concerning domestic violence and sexual assault.

Michael Emanuel Jr., a retired Torrington Police Department lieutenant who serves on the SBA Project’s board of directors, will walk among the participants.

Emanuel recently participated in the walk while vacationing in Florida, where he found an event in Vero Beach.

“It was enlightening, and it was challenging and it was rewarding,” Emanuel said. “I have a great respect for everyone that wears heels.”

The purpose of men wearing high-heeled shoes during the event is to demonstrate “men’s willingness to walk with women and children as allies, advocates and survivors,” according to a statement released by the SBA Project.

Devaux said this year’s walk will be the first of its kind held by her organization. She is hopeful it will become an annual event.

“We want the community to feel like they are a part of it and have people come closer to the organization,” Devaux said. “We are really grateful to be able to do this.”

Emanuel, who teaches criminal justice at Northwestern Connecticut Community College, said his former colleagues and current students have been extremely receptive.

The event will take place on May 20 beginning at 9 a.m. The walk will follow a course through the center of town, and will start and end on the Litchfield Green.

Male participants can either walk individually or form a team and are encouraged to register online and collect pledges. Red high heels will be provided to registered walkers, but attendees can wear red shoe covers or their own red shoes if they are unable to walk in high heels.

Women and children are encouraged to attend the event as walkers, volunteers or attendees, but don’t need to register, Devaux said.

The funding generated will directly support the SBA Project’s programs and services.

The organization offers a full range of programs to help clients rebuild their lives and include counseling, support groups, career services and a 24-hour crisis line. The programs are confidential, free and available in 20 towns in Litchfield County.

Michael Emanuel Jr. / Hearst Connecticut Media Michael Emanuel Jr., who serves on the SBA Project’s board of directors, will be participating in the “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event.