About 20 greek men strutted their stuff around sorority circle Thursday evening in an effort to raise awareness of sexual assault.

The Interfraternity Council put on “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes,” an event that had fraternity members don high heels and do laps around sorority circle. For some, it was an eye-opening, foot-crunching experience.

“They hurt my feet,” said Brad White, Interfraternity Council vice president for philanthropy and community service and sophomore in pre-business.

“I really respect women a lot more because these things are really hard to wear.”

Before the walk, Angie Schreck, sexual assault services coordinator from Assault Care Center Extending Shelter and Support, addressed participants, telling them their recognition of victims was valuable.

White, who organized the event, said Schreck’s message was valuable.

“I guess I didn’t realize women who are affected by sexual abuse appreciate the men who did this,” White said.

Groups of onlookers dotted sorority circle, watching the men make their laps. Sitting in front of the Delta Zeta house, a group of women welcomed the spectacle.

“It was funny to see them try to do something we do every day,” said Bethanie Novak, freshman in pre-journalism and mass communication.

The women thought it was funny that only a handful of the men attempted to do the walk in stilettos.

“Those are some weak heels, but we appreciate the effort,” said Aimee Haugan, sophomore in pre-journalism and mass communication.

The event helped bridge the gender difference between the men and them, the women said.

“They asked, ‘How do you walk in grass in these things?'” Haugan laughed. “It’s like, yeah, see? Not that easy.”

White said he hopes the event continues in the future. This year, some of the shoes were provided by the Salvation Army, 207 S. Duff Ave., but IFC is investing in heels of its own for the future.

“We hope to get more people next year,” White said. “I learned a lot and had a lot of fun.”