In order to get men to empathize with women, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes will encourage men to dress in drag. The event is one of many that will take place for Women’s Herstory Month.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an effort to stop rape, sexual assault and gender violence.

Men are literally encouraged to walk a mile in women’s high-heeled shoes. Women donate shoes prior to the festivities, and men wear them to literally and figuratively understand what it’s like to walk in a woman’s shoes. This event will be held March 16 in the Free Speech Area at 5 p.m.

The march asks men to join in the efforts of making the world a safer place and it provides an opportunity for the community to talk about these important issues.

The Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event attempts to expand the dialogue between men and women on gender differences, gender relationship and gender violence. Also, it helps men to better understand and appreciate women’s experiences, and teach children respect for themselves and others.

Georgianna Negron, a senior psychology major, organized volunteers for the event and contacted different organizations about tabling at the event for the past couple of years. The Majoree Mason Center and United Students Pride will be among the groups in attendance.

“Not only does this event bring awareness but it also shows that men are involved in the efforts of getting the message out there,” Negron said.

Negron also declared that the Violence Prevention Project usually solicits the help of Fresno State’s fraternities for this event.

According to a study by the National Institute of Justice and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1.5 million women become victimized by rape or physical assault by their partners each year. In addition, each year, more than 10 million American children witness family violence in their homes. Forty percent of girls age 14 to 17 know someone their age that has been hit or beaten by a boyfriend.

“It affects the community as a whole,” Negron said. This event demonstrates that sexual abuse is not just a women’s issue. In fact this issue affects both genders, Negron said.

Jenny Whyte, coordinator of the Women’s Resource Center, describes her experience at last year’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event as wonderful.

“Seeing the men put on women’s shoes and stand up against violence against women was inspirational,” Whyte said.

Negron said she encourages all to participate.

“People can really make a difference, so I hope many will come out in support,” Negron said.