Neighbours, Friends and Families, a campaign to tell people what they can do to help people in their lives affected by domestic violence was launched at NSW November 20, 2007. This provincial initiative is aimed at helping people recognize the signs of domestic abuse and provide tips on talking to those individuals that may be experiencing abuse.   For further information please contact the Shelter. 

From the Desk of the Executive Director

A friend of NSW, Ed Denning, participated in the Walk A Mile in Her Shoes event held in June.  Shortly afterwards, he wrote the following:

By Ed Denning

 The Egalitarian in Red High Heels

We all know more than one.

I tried on high heels for the first time and went for a walk; bright red shoes with four inch spikes. Somehow I managed to negotiate a mile without turning an ankle into a slushy. They were a lot more comfortable than I am… err… comfortable with.

No, I haven’t suddenly decided to start cross dressing. In fact, I donned my tuxedo as part of the ensemble. My friend Eric Davidson honoured me by donning tuxedo and red women’s shoes to join me for the walk. The event was Walk a Mile in Her Shoes in support of Northumberland Services for Women. For those who aren’t aware, NSW is a shelter for women and children subjected to abuses.

A few things struck me as I walked along with fifty or sixty other gentlemen. First, there are many of us willing to step way out of our comfort zone to support causes we truly believe in. I wondered how far I was willing to go to support awareness against abuses. Pretty far, apparently.

The second thing I noticed was representation. There were men from all walks of life, different age groups and varying comfort levels wearing ladies shoes. There were working men, members of government, policemen, firemen, young school age men and retired men.

The NSW services all of Northumberland including Brighton. It’s a cause that benefits everyone in our community. And that’s what it’s all about, no? When community collectively decides that abuses against others are not to be tolerated, we can make change.

We all had our own reasons for walking the mile. We all know someone who has been a victim of some form of abuse. Even one is too many. Awareness isn’t enough. Walking in high heels isn’t enough. We have to step in when we see abuses, speak up when off colour jokes are told and defend others when they are maligned.

Egalitarianism isn’t always easy. It takes courage to take a stand. For me, it was an easy choice to sport red high heels and walk down the middle of a street with sixty other men. I have four very personal reasons for supporting NSW. Everything becomes much easier when there are others standing with us. Next year, Eric and I would like to be joined by many more men in tuxedo for the walk.

I just hope no-one suggests I need a red handbag.

Namaste

NSW appreciates the support of men like Ed.  Without all of us working together, family violence will continue to be a major issue.  And if you really want a red handbag, we can arrange that too.  Thanks Ed!