Clothesline Project brings awareness to domestic violence
Taylor Whitaker - Staff Writer
Since October 1990, the Clothesline Project has been a way for women across the world to speak up and out about violence. The project visually displays shirts featuring writing and illustrations designed by women survivors of violence. Designing these shirts is an art form that amplifies their voice and the voices of those who are unable to speak out.
“The Clothesline Project is a visual resource that helps raise awareness about sexual violence and its effects on survivors,” said Megan McGruder, Director of Student Well-Being. “By displaying decorated shirts that convey personal stories, it fosters an open dialogue about consent and support.”
Traditionally, laundry was considered a woman’s task. In the past, women would exchange information over backyard fences while hanging clothes to dry on the clothesline.
The shirts these survivors design all have deep meaning in their colors. Some pay tribute to victims who have died at the hands of violence, if this were the case, they designed a white shirt. If they themselves were a victim of domestic violence, they designed a yellow shirt. Survivors of rape or childhood sexual abuse designed red, pink, or orange shirts; survivors of incest designed blue or green shirts. The list continues.
“This initiative empowers survivors to share their experiences, promoting healing and community solidarity,” said McGruder. “Additionally, it helps to break the stigma surrounding sexual violence, encouraging more individuals to seek help. We ultimately brought the project to campus to help create a more informed and supportive environment for all students”
It does not only bring awareness to the impact of violence against women, but also serves to celebrate the women who were able to survive their situation and broke their silence.