Community Unites to Honor Domestic Violence Victims at “Walk A Mile in Their Shoes”
Rows of empty shoes lined the plaza, each pair placed before a photo — a visual reminder of lives lost and families forever changed.
BATON ROUGE, La. — Dozens gathered on the steps of Baton Rouge City Hall Thursday evening for The Butterfly Society’s annual “Walk A Mile in Their Shoes” event, a solemn and powerful tribute to victims and survivors of domestic violence.
Rows of empty shoes lined the plaza, each pair placed before a photo — a visual reminder of lives lost and families forever changed. The display urged onlookers to reflect not just on the tragedy of domestic violence, but on the resilience of those who endure it.
Throughout the evening, survivors and advocates took the microphone to share their stories of pain, courage, and hope. The event served as both remembrance and a call to action, emphasizing the importance of understanding, empathy, and community support.
“Leaving isn’t always a simple choice,” said Twahna P. Harris, executive director of The Butterfly Society. “It’s critical for the community to understand what victims face — the fear, the uncertainty, and the strength it takes to survive.”
The Butterfly Society, a Baton Rouge–based nonprofit, continues to provide education, resources, and advocacy for those impacted by domestic violence. Thursday’s gathering was a reminder that while every shoe represents a life touched by abuse, it also symbolizes the ongoing march toward healing and justice.
