For the third consecutive year, iHeart is proud to present Sista Strut, returning to Indianapolis, to raise awareness and funds for cancer in underserved communities—particularly among people of color. This event, a hallmark of celebration and empowerment, will take place on October 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Victory Field.
While the Sista Strut is planning for its third year, the Indianapolis community has already demonstrated that there’s a high demand for this event and awareness of cancer prevention and early detection, particularly in the Black community.
“Involvement and attendance at Sista Strut has grown organically, from just over 200 participants in the first year to more than 900 last year,” shared Leon Williamson, Market President, iHeartMedia Multiplatform Group –Indianapolis. “This year, we’re expecting the event to grow ten times that due to the incredible support from the community. Together, Indianapolis is coming together to create a space where people of color can feel comfortable and supported to confront and discuss this significant health issue that disproportionately affects our community.”
Victory Field will serve as the backdrop for this year’s event, marking three years of Sista Strut at this iconic venue. The event will feature an official stage with interactive activities on the jumbotron, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
“While we’re a fairly new brand in Indy, iHeart has been hosting this event for 14 years in other markets, spreading across 19 other cities,” Williamson said. “Perhaps that’s why our growth has been so exceptional. There’s a need for spaces where Black community members can gather for recreation while also accessing critical information that can enhance and sometimes save their lives. We just want Indianapolis to know we’re here, they’re invited, and to register to join us.”
The mission of Sista Strut is rooted in addressing the significant disparities in cancer education and outcomes within the Black community. While data shows that the breast cancer disparity is closing, the number of diagnoses is still rising across the country. Sista Strut aims to close these gaps by providing a celebratory experience that empowers participants and raises awareness about the importance of cancer screening and support services.
In collaboration with Sista Strust, the Cancer Support Community has been a key beneficiary of the funds raised by Sista Strut. Through this partnership, the Cancer Support Community chooses a breast cancer survivor every year to ring the bell at Victory Field to start the walk. This year TeQuaysha Tubbs will serve as the official bellringer. Last year, $1,000 was raised through t-shirt sales, with 30% of the proceeds going directly to support their work. This year, Sista Strut is hoping to double that number and its contributions to supporting people touched by this deadly disease.
Sista Strut is not just a walk; it’s a community-driven movement. Teams are encouraged to register, with discounts available for groups of five or more.
The excitement will begin on September 12 at the Walker Theatre with the Cinema on the Ave series, featuring the premiere of a documentary on last year’s Sista Strut event. The film will include interviews with eight survivors who attended the 2023 walk, along with insights from the Cancer Support Community. This kickoff event sets the tone for what’s sure to be an inspiring and uplifting experience at Victory Field.
Sista Strut Indianapolis continues to grow, and with the support of BEI member companies, it can reach even greater heights this year. Whether you’re walking in honor of a loved one, to support the cause, or simply to be part of a community celebration, your individual and corporate participation matters.
If you’re a business interested in sponsoring or a company looking to engage your team, special codes and opportunities are available to ensure your involvement makes a significant impact.
Let’s strut together for a cause that’s too important to ignore. For more information and to register, visit Sista Strut’s official website.
