A diverse group of men in this community will, literally, walk a
mile this Saturday in a pair of women
’s shoes through Gilroy in order to figuratively protest
violence against women. The walk will begin at the Community
Solutions office at 6980 Chestnut St. and will end at Christmas
Hill Park.
A diverse group of men in this community will, literally, walk a mile this Saturday in a pair of women’s shoes through Gilroy in order to figuratively protest violence against women. The walk will begin at the Community Solutions office at 6980 Chestnut St. and will end at Christmas Hill Park.
A Health and Safety Fair will immediately follow the event in the park. Proceeds from the events will benefit Community Solution’s South Valley Rape Crisis Program.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and throughout the state, rape crisis centers are planning activities to educate their communities about rape and sexual assault. The goal is to encourage the public to participate in events that promote understanding about sexual assault and its prevention.
“Many individuals believe that rape is a ‘women’s issue’ because women and children constitute the vast majority of victims. But the truth is, male involvement is critical not only because the majority of rapes and sexual assaults are committed by men – but also because many men are also sexually assaulted as children and as adults,” said Angela Coventry, director of Community Solutions’ Rape Crisis program.
It is estimated that one in three women, one in four girls, one in six boys and one in 11 men will be victims of sexual assault at least once in their lifetimes. Strong, courageous men are needed to help create a safer world for women, youth, children and other men, Coventry said.
Registration for the Men’s March Against Rape begins at 11 a.m. at Community Solutions’ Gilroy Office, 6980 Chestnut St. (next to DMV). The march will begin at noon Men are encouraged (but not required) to walk in women’s shoes and participants are being asked to collect at least $100 in sponsorship. All proceeds will benefit South County Rape Crisis Program.
The Walk will be followed by A Day in the Park: Health and Safety Fair. Free and low-cost activities for kids will include a fun jump, balloons, face painting, arts and crafts and more. Local non-profits and service providers will offer games, prizes and resource information. The Impala Car Club will be on display.
Community Solutions provides a 24-hour crisis line for rape survivors and their loved ones since 1981. Trained staff and volunteers offer crisis intervention, support groups, counseling and assistance through the legal process. All calls to the crisis line (408-779-2115) are free and confidential. Walk details: 779-2113.
