Tifton, Georgia, witnessed a powerful show of solidarity on October 23, 2025, as community members participated in the Walk A Mile in Her Shoes event. This initiative aimed to raise awareness about domestic violence by inviting participants to walk a mile in high-heeled shoes. Attendees included locals from various organizations, students from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, and members of the broader community, all united in support of victims of domestic abuse.
The event, staged along ABAC Circle, required participants to complete three laps around the campus loop, totaling approximately one mile. This creative demonstration highlighted the empathy and understanding needed for those affected by domestic violence. Organized by the local nonprofit organizations Ruth’s Cottage and Patticake House, the walk served as the culmination of a month-long campaign for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Nancy Bryan, executive director of Ruth’s Cottage, emphasized the importance of the event. “It’s meant to be an example of how people need to put themselves in the shoes of folks experiencing [domestic violence], have some empathy and education on it,” she stated. This finale allowed participants to express solidarity in a light-hearted yet impactful manner.
Many participants embraced the spirit of the event, walking with enthusiasm, and some even attempted to run portions of the course despite the challenges presented by their footwear. They carried signs advocating against domestic violence and promoting messages of hope and resilience.
A variety of local organizations joined the cause, including Tift Regional Medical Center, the Tifton Fire and Police Departments, and Tift County Schools. The ABAC Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity also participated, showcasing the wide-ranging community support for the initiative. Notably, the Tift Regional team raised an impressive $5,225 in donations leading up to the event, a record for this campaign. Bryan recognized their efforts with a trophy, expressing her gratitude for their generosity and commitment.
As the event concluded, Bryan reflected on the success of the campaign and expressed hopes for its future growth. “It means a lot to have men actually doing that to symbolize that they get it, at least for one mile,” she noted, highlighting the event’s significance in fostering understanding and awareness around domestic violence. The Tift community’s participation validated the hard work put into the campaign and underscored the importance of continued advocacy for victims of domestic abuse.
