Victims of domestic violence were honoured at a 5 km run in Saint John on Saturday.

More than 200 people laced up for the event made to remember five local women who were killed by their spouses.

Laun-Marie Scott is a domestic violence outreach worker. She says the event is an opportunity for those affected by domestic violence to unite and recognize they’re not alone.

"It’s an empowering moment for survivors, as well as friends that've been impacted by domestic violence,” said Scott.

Cst. Kelley McIntyre of Kennebacasis Regional Police says Alice Leadly, Melanie Davis, Cindy Irving, Cathy Brawn and Tanya Shand, who all lost their lives to domestic violence, were honoured at each kilometre of the race.

All five women were from the Saint John or Kennebacasis Valley area, and their stories hit close to home for many in attendance.

"All the families have come together,” said Julie Ryan, Shand’s sister. “This is the first time all the families have gotten together, so there's a lot of healing, there is a lot of bonding there. Then of course everyone is bringing their friends and their family. It's going to spread throughout the community. That's why it's important."

Marshall Howard was the winner of the race. He says he knows first-hand what it's like to witness domestic violence.

"Not enough people know about it, and that's why we had each kilometre marked by a woman who was murdered due to domestic violence,” said Howard. “Personally, I feel my mom could've been in the same position, like I said, we survived domestic violence and I felt I needed to show my support today."

Purple, the colour of domestic violence awareness, was worn by many runners and organizers to show their support.

"I think it's a really important cause and it's nice to see people recognizing that we all have to work together on this so I really wanted to support the cause," said runner Darrell Steeves.

One in four woman are impacted by domestic violence. Participants hope the event keeps the domestic violence conversation going so people feel more comfortable speaking out.

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Ashley Blackford.