YWCA puts community ‘In Her Shoes’

By Kendra Simpson

To better help the public understand what domestic violence survivors go through, the YWCA is hosting several “In Her Shoes” simulations throughout October.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Young Women’s Christian Association is encouraging St. Joseph residents to take action against domestic violence. The nonprofit will host the “In Her Shoes” immersive simulation as a method to promote empathy and understanding for survivors.

“They walk through different scenarios and have to make decisions,” said Corina Merritt, YWCA survivor outreach specialist. “The whole point is to help somebody understand that it’s not that easy to get out of these situations and that it’s not just the person going through it. It’s actually a community problem and it just opens the door for conversation to see how people can actually help with domestic violence.

On Thursday, the nonprofit invited the members of Leadership St. Joseph to view the simulation. Participants were given situations of domestic violence and had to make decisions as the person affected. Some choices led the survivor to help, while others led to her dying at the hands of domestic abuse.

“It made it very real for me,” Leadership St. Joseph member Shawnda Embrey said. “We did two different circumstances and we got to see how it could turn out. That varies by person, by the decisions you make, so I think it felt very personal.”

The YWCA will host two more simulations open to the community to view and interact with from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 6:30 p.m. Oct. 17 and 24. Those interested in attending should reach out to Merritt at (816) 232-4481 ext. 332 or email at cmerritt@ywcasj.org.

“I thought it was really valuable,” Embrey said. “I think sometimes we don’t see the experiences other people have. So it’s good to, learn how to be more empathetic.”

While “In Her Shoes” continues throughout October, St. Joseph residents can still support the YWCA’s mission to end domestic violence in the community by participating in the group’s other dedicated events. The next event will be “Empty Seat at the Table,” located at various restaurants throughout the city. Participating restaurants will reserve one empty table as a symbol of those who have lost their lives to domestic violence.

For a complete list of YWCA’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month events, visit the nonprofit’s Facebook page at facebook.com/YWCAStJoe.