“From this day forward, I promise never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women, sexual assault and domestic violence.”

The Harlan County Domestic Violence Council and Cumberland Valley Domestic Violence Services are sponsoring the 10th annual countywide 100 Man March Against Domestic Violence as part of an international effort to engage men and boys to help end violence against women.

The 100 Man March coincides with Sexual Assault Awareness Month to highlight the need to combine respect and safety with romance and love. We want to talk about what we must stop (sexual assault and domestic violence) and promote what we must have (respect and safety). We will celebrate positive masculinity.

The Harlan County Domestic Violence Council invites all men, women, girls and boys to join us in this march against domestic violence – to challenge the notions of masculinity that equate strength with violence and control and instead foster positive images of masculinity that will help us create a world free of abuse.

By participating in the march, you will publicly proclaim your commitment to ending violence against women. You can play an important part in changing the social norms that perpetuate and make excuses for violence against women.

Change can start with a step as simple as participating in the march. It’s a public step that is visible to everyone. It sends a clear message about what we tolerate and what we promote in terms of equality and human rights.

The march will take place at 1 p.m. on Saturday at the Harlan Center parking lot, Main Street in Harlan. There will be refreshments and door prizes for walkers and supporters. Participants will need to arrive at the parking lot by 12:45 p.m. The March will proceed up Main Street to the Baptist Church, up Mound Street, down First Street and return to the parking lot. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Pre-Registration is not required.

If you or someone you love is in a violent relationship, help is available, call Cumberland Valley Domestic Violence Services 24-hour crisis line 800-755-5348, or call Sheryl Caudel, Harlan County domestic violence victim advocate at 606-392-1129.

For additional information about the march, email: harlandvc@gmail.com or contact Caudel.