Associated Student Government President Beau Flores will don high heels and run to support victims of domestic violence later this month. He is the most recent member of The Criterion’s Men in Heels race team, and the only member of the team that is not part of The Criterion. 

Every year, Alpine Bank sponsors its Men in Heels Race, a fundraiser for Hilltop’s Latimer House, raising money for domestic violence services. The Latimer House is an emergency shelter for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. They also provide resources in advocacy, group therapy, individual therapy, and children’s services.

While the race has occurred internationally for years, Colorado Mesa University has not yet participated in the event until now. The Criterion reported on the event last year, but current Editor in Chief Chris DeLeon did not want to simply report on the event. “ I was inspired when we ran an article on the race last year. This year I wanted to do more,” he said. He will be running in the race representing The Criterion as well as CMU on Sept. 13 at the downtown Farmer’s Market.

“I can’t think of a better cause. Domestic violence and sexual assault affect so many people. I have seen my mother and my sisters become victims. Anything that can be done to combat such horrendous acts should be done,” DeLeon said. “I hope the donations made through our team will help some victims gain some much needed help. I want to send a message to the community that CMU students care about this city and helping those in danger.”

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DeLeon isn’t the only student wishing to show support to the students and community. Flores feels equally as strong about support. “Cliche as it is, we’re definitely here for our students, and even if it’s something people don’t like to talk about. Domestic violence is hidden a lot, but just to let them know that we’re here and we understand, and ultimately we’ll run in heels for you.” Flores said during an interview last Thursday.

DeLeon announced that Flores would be running alongside him in the race during the ASG Senate meeting last Wednesday. DeLeon has been working with ASG in the efforts to donate $2000 from Colorado Mesa University for the cause. “Beau has been in full support of this effort since I first mentioned it to him. He’s the one that did all the work to ensure a donation from ASG. It only makes sense that he should be on the team,” DeLeon said.

“Beau has a very big heart. He rushed to support us instantly. So when the need arose to fill in my team, it really didn’t take a lot of convincing to get him to join. At first he didn’t want to take any credit for the team away from The Criterion. However, I was a little relentless in letting him know how much of an impact it would make for him to run,” DeLeon said.

Those who wish to watch the ASG President run in the race can do so at the event or by tuning into Fox4 at 5:30 p.m. DeLeon has also been working with CMU TV to cover the event but nothing is currently finalized.