The Eta Nu Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is inviting the central Ohio community to come together for a meaningful cause at the inaugural Walk With Me Sugar: 5K Run/Walk Against Diabetes. This special event will take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Genoa Park, located at 303 W. Broad Street in Columbus. Designed to raise awareness about diabetes while celebrating culture and promoting health, this event is free and open to all. Participants can join either in person or virtually, making it accessible to a wide audience who wish to take part in this impactful initiative. Registration remains open until the day of the event through the official sign-up platform.
The name Walk With Me Sugar carries deep cultural significance. The phrase has its roots in Southern Black vernacular, where the word “sugar” has been lovingly used as a term of endearment, particularly by African American grandmothers and aunts when addressing younger family members. “Walk with me, sugar” was often spoken during moments of closeness, offering guidance, mentorship, or physical support. This expression became even more prominent during and after the Great Migration between 1910 and 1970, symbolizing love, care, and the bond between generations. By naming the event Walk With Me Sugar, organizers pay tribute to this heartfelt cultural expression while encouraging participants to walk together with purpose, supporting one another in the journey toward better health and community wellness.
The Walk With Me Sugar event will feature a 5K run or walk through the scenic downtown Columbus area, providing an opportunity for participants to engage in physical activity while contributing to an important cause. For families or those seeking a shorter route, there will also be a one-mile family walk option, ensuring that the event is inclusive for all fitness levels and age groups. In addition to the walk, the event will include free health screenings, lively DJ music, and vendor booths, creating a vibrant atmosphere for attendees. There will also be a community moment of remembrance to honor those who have been affected by diabetes, allowing participants to reflect on the impact of the disease and the importance of supporting one another in the fight against it.
Diabetes remains a significant health issue, disproportionately affecting African American communities at higher rates than other groups. Events like Walk With Me Sugar not only promote physical activity and awareness but also foster unity and cultural pride while addressing a pressing health concern. Organizers emphasize that this event is both a celebration of culture and a call to action, inspiring participants to take proactive steps in their own health journeys and support efforts to reduce the burden of diabetes in the community.
All donations collected during the event will benefit the Columbus Free Clinic, an organization that provides essential diabetic care to individuals without medical insurance. This ensures that the funds raised directly contribute to improving the lives of those who are most in need of medical support. By participating, attendees are not only promoting their own health but also helping others access critical care and resources.
With its combination of cultural significance, community spirit, and focus on health, Walk With Me Sugar is more than just a 5K run or walk. It is an opportunity for residents of central Ohio to come together, celebrate their heritage, and make a meaningful impact in the fight against diabetes. The event is expected to draw individuals from across the region who share a commitment to wellness, compassion, and solidarity. As the inaugural edition of this event, it also sets the stage for an annual tradition that can continue to inspire positive change in the years to come. Participants are encouraged to sign up, bring their families, and join in this powerful movement to promote health and community support.
