'In Her Shoes' takes a look at trying to escape abuse

"In Her Shoes", an interactive workshop on keeping victims of domestic abuse safe, will be presented Tuesday, May 16, at Brookside Landing, 413 Johnson Ave. in Orofino.

Participants take the roles of diverse battered women as they seek assistance from a variety of services. Based on real-life stories of victims looking for safety, participants move through "stations" representing various people and organizations in the community who may be able to help.

"In Her Shoes" demonstrates that escape from abuse is often complicated, unpredictable and, sometimes, impossible. Participants will be aware of the severe challenges faced when trying to leave an abusive situation and be able to answer for themselves, "why doesn't she just leave?"

According to statistics, one in four people is abused physically or emotionally. Everyone knows someone and the victims of domestic abuse can be in any profession.

The workshop is sponsored by the YWCA of Lewiston-Clarkston. There is no fee, but pre-registration is requested. Call 1-800-699-3176 or email: ywca-idaho@lewiston.com. There will be light refreshments and no child care. The simulation was developed by the Washington Coalition Against Domestic Violence.