September 26, 2025

Lexington Hosts ‘Walk a Mile in Our Shoes’ Event

Lexington, Kentucky, September 25, 2025

News Summary

Lexington, Kentucky, will host the ‘Walk a Mile in Our Shoes’ event on September 25, recognizing the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims. The event invites families and community members affected by homicide to bring mementos that represent their loved ones, fostering remembrance and healing. Organizers hope to promote awareness of violence prevention while honoring those lost to violence, such as Antonio “Tony” Franklin Jr., a victim of gun violence in 2014. This gathering is an essential step toward rebuilding community support and reducing violence.

Lexington Hosts ‘Walk a Mile in Our Shoes’ Event on National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims

Lexington, Kentucky, is set to host the ‘Walk a Mile in Our Shoes’ event on September 25, in recognition of the National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims. This gathering will take place at the historic Lyric Theatre from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and is designed for families and community members who have lost loved ones to homicide.

The event aims to provide a therapeutic experience for participants, according to Ricardo Franklin, a community outreach coordinator with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office. Attendees are encouraged to bring mementos that represent their loved ones, such as shoes, hats, jewelry, and pictures. These items will highlight the sentiment of ‘what once was’, particularly through the symbolism of shoes that are no longer filled.

One of the poignant aspects of the event will be the display of shoes and a hat belonging to Franklin’s late brother, Antonio “Tony” Franklin Jr., who was tragically murdered in 2014 at the age of 21. As an innocent bystander to gun violence, Tony’s memory will be honored through this display, which aims to celebrate the joy he brought to others.

In recent years, Lexington has experienced a decline in homicide rates, with data showing 44 homicides in 2022, dropping to 24 in 2023 and 22 in 2024, with 16 reported so far this year. Franklin has expressed hope for continued progress in reducing the violence that affects the community.

While the event is primarily for families in Lexington, it is open to individuals from across central Kentucky. Community advocates attending the gathering will focus on raising awareness about violence prevention and supporting survivors of homicide victims.

Event Details

What: ‘Walk a Mile in Our Shoes’ event
When: September 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Where: Lyric Theatre, Lexington, Kentucky
Who: Open to families and community members

Background

The National Day of Remembrance for Homicide Victims is a time dedicated to honoring those who have lost their lives due to violence. This day not only commemorates the victims but also aims to support the grieving families left behind. Events like ‘Walk a Mile in Our Shoes’ serve as an essential reminder for the community to rally together in both remembrance and prevention.

As violence continues to affect families across the nation, gatherings such as this bring hope and healing to those impacted. The initiative promotes a collective sense of responsibility within the community to work towards a safer future.

FAQ Section

What is the purpose of the ‘Walk a Mile in Our Shoes’ event?

The event is designed to support families and community members who have lost loved ones to homicide, providing a therapeutic way to remember and honor them.

When and where will the event take place?

The event is scheduled for September 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the Lyric Theatre in Lexington, Kentucky.

Who can attend the gathering?

The event is open to families and community members from Lexington and other areas in central Kentucky.

What items should attendees bring?

Participants are encouraged to bring items that connect them to their loved ones, such as shoes, hats, jewelry, or pictures.

Why is this event significant?

The event highlights the need for remembrance and raises awareness about violence prevention. It fosters a sense of community and support among attendees.

Key Features of the Event

Feature	Description
Date	September 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location	Lyric Theatre, Lexington, Kentucky
Target Audience	Families and community members affected by homicide
Items to Bring	Shoes, hats, jewelry, pictures
Focus	Remembrance and violence prevention