The fight against family violence has become very public in recent years.
While there has been a lot of talk, putting that voice into action speaks far louder and demonstrates a real desire to change things.
That’s what makes the Walk A Mile in Her Shoes fundraising event such an important component in the campaign to not only bring awareness to the topic, but expresses through action their support in ending the cycle of violence.
It has always been, and continues to be, difficult for victims to come forward and seek assistance.
While more programs and initiatives are prompting more victims to have the courage to step up and confront the issue, leave the situation and trying to move on in their lives; the topic remains something a lot of people want kept hidden or simply don’t wish to discuss.
A provincial survey found 74 per cent of respondents felt family or relationship violence should stay a family matter and should not be their concern.
In an age where everyone is demanding equality, where it seems no topic is off-limits for television, the Internet or social media – no matter how scandalous or salacious – why is violence in a family, workplace or relationship situation still so taboo?
It is for that reason alone there is a need for events that bring the issue into the bright spotlight, highlighting a scourge that can be readily eradicated.
How?
By simply showing support in a very public way and making the issue something as easy to discuss in that setting, as last night’s sports scores over a cup of coffee.
Take the recent news item regarding the now former NFL player Ray Rice and the resulting firestorm that results from the release of the video showing him knocking his then fiancé – now wife – unconscious in an elevator earlier this year.
That story is an example of what should happen without such high-profile incidents making headline news.
There continues to be a stigma attached to this kind of violence and some want to see it stay buried, like it is something shameful.
Fortunately though, there remain events such as Walk A Mile that bring a positive and constructive awareness forward on a topic that shouldn’t be left in the shadows or behind closed doors.
