Hundreds of shoeless students will walk through their daily routine today to simulate the conditions many people face around the world every day.
Ball State University students are urged to participate in the "One Day Without Shoes" event by attending classes barefoot today to raise awareness for TOMS Shoes and its work in impoverished countries around the world.
Stephanie Bane, campus representative for TOMS Shoes, said she hopes that when students see others walking, it will prompt questions and discussion.
"This is a global event and we're hoping that it will spread through word of mouth around campus," she said. "When people see others shoeless, hopefully they will stop and ask ‘Why aren't you wearing shoes?'"
Bane estimated that there were 300 students who participated in the event last year. The goal for this year is at least 500.
"It'd be great if we got everyone involved," she said. "TOMS Shoes is much bigger now than it was this time last year, so we can definitely get more participation."
According to the event's Web site, the goal of the day is to raise awareness of the impact a pair of shoes can have on a child's life.
Due to a lack of student interest, two planned walks down McKinley Avenue have been canceled, but TOMS Shoes representatives, including Bane, will be walking around campus promoting this event.
"We have a wide range of students from freshmen to seniors participating in the event and our hopes are that more will join as the day goes on," Bane said.
Freshman Lisa Vitkin took part in the "Walk a Mile Without Shoes" event last month and said this event is a good way to keep spreading awareness.
"I was very uncomfortable walking around barefoot for one mile. I couldn't imagine doing it all day, every day," she said. "I had to keep looking down because I didn't know what was in front of me."
The event was promoted globally through Facebook and its page about the event had more than 114,000 confirmed guests.
Read More
Self-immolation outside Manhattan courthouse where Trump trial is adjourned
By Staff Reports / 6 hours agoA person, who was later identified as Max Azzarello, self-immolated outside of the Manhattan courthouse where former president Donald Trump is on trial. Azzarello was extinguished and rushed away by emergency services. He is in critical condition at Weill Cornell Medicine - Burn Center, according to a press conference held by the New York Police Department (NYPD).
The closure of the historic Mark III Tap Room impacts Muncie’s LGBTQ+ community.
By Meghan Holt / 12 hours agoPatrons of the oldest gay bar in Indiana reflect on how it affected their lives.
Retired high school teacher holds presentation about history of Berlin Wall
By Emma Matlock / YesterdayTom Schwartz, a retired Bluffton High School Teacher, talks about the art on the Berlin Wall on April 15, 2024.
