Red high heels filled the streets of downtown Cobourg Saturday as the community came together for the 19th Annual Walk A Mile in support of survivors of gender-based violence.
The annual event took place October 4, 2026, beginning at the Cobourg Police Station before participants made their way through downtown, led by the Cobourg Police Pipes and Drums.
The sight of people walking in red high heels has become a powerful symbol of the event — drawing attention to the realities of gender-based violence while raising much-needed funds for Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre.
Cornerstone Executive Director Nancy Johnston welcomed the crowd and thanked both returning participants and those taking part for the first time.
“It’s great to see so many familiar faces and new ones,” Johnston said, welcoming participants to the 19th annual Walk A Mile.
She said Cornerstone remains committed to continued self-reflection, learning and advocacy for systemic change.
But the reason participants were there Saturday was clear.
“Thank you for showing up, for walking with us, and for helping create a future free from gender-based violence,” Johnston told the crowd.
The need for Cornerstone’s services continues to grow.
Johnston said that during the past year alone, Cornerstone supported more than 2,400 women, children and youth.
The Walk A Mile fundraiser plays an important role in helping the organization continue providing those services.
And the community has been supporting the event for nearly two decades.
Johnston said that over the past 18 years, the generosity of participants and supporters has raised more than $664,500.
That money has made a meaningful difference to people throughout the community who rely on Cornerstone’s services.
For those walking Saturday, the red heels were more than a symbol.
They represented a willingness to stand up, speak out and walk alongside those affected by gender-based violence.
And once again, Cobourg and area showed that there is a community willing to take those steps together.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
