'Dude, Looks like a Lady'

ROSEBURG, Ore. -- Over 100 men gathered today for a good cause, and got to show off some high fashion in the process.

The reason behind the Walk A Mile in Her Shoes event is serious, but the march itself is anything but.

Dozens of men gathered on the courthouse lawn in everything from pink pumps to red stilettos, to show that they don't support violence against women.

The brave souls then marched through downtown for nearly a mile. Some danced, while others... stumbled.

Some participants told KPIC News that the painful footwear was worth the good cause.

Manny Anaya-Walker said, "We're out here raising... a beautiful cause. This is for all the women out there who've gone through some darker days, this is for you all."

More than 130 men strapped on stilettos, and organizers say that's more than they've ever had for the event before.

"It warms my heart," said Andi Linden of the Battered Person's Advocacy. "It was such a fun event, I was laughing the whole time. It was great."

Behind the laughs and smiles was a serious message.

Many men held signs denouncing rape, assault and violence against women.

Participant Jared Vincent told KPIC News, "I've known people that have had dark things happen to them, and I just want to be able to support that and bring awareness."

And though participants walked with pride during the march, many hobbled home after.

Michael Emmanuil summed up his feelings afterwords with one word: "Sore."

Participants raised money for the BPA.

Organizers aren't sure yet how much money was raised, but say one man alone raised over $400, and add that every donation helps.