Art and Activism

In a world where freedom of expression is just a phrase and no freedom is actually guaranteed, activists have had to come up with creative ways to send messages that ensure they live to see another day to fight for the causes they fight for. There are different stake holders in the fight for freedom and finding a message that can communicate to all of them is nearly impossible. Communications expert will advise different language, vessel or platform for each group if we are to reach everyone we hope to reach. The most difficult group to reach has proven to be the general public; this is because of this group is receiving information from very many other sources some working against the causes we are working towards as human rights defenders. Attitude change is the public is something that can be undone by evening, it I easy to send a powerful message over the radio detailing the benefits of an inclusive society and have the very next show be hosted by a homophobic preacher undoing all the work you just did and fueling discrimination. How then are activists to reach the masses and hope for a sustainable impact? We have found that even the bitterest of folk have a way to their hearts-art; the most universal language whose impact sticks with you. Las year as the world celebrated 16 days of activism, EAVA worked with a group of LGBTIQ+ artists to work on the first ever queer street mural in Uganda. Having this mural put up, we were very uncertain of its longevity passed the launch day but the mural still stands to today. Throughout the process of making this mural, passersby engaged with the artists and respectfully asked question regarding the work.  People were genuinely curious and willing to learn more about violence towards sexual and gender minorities. This has been our most engaging mode of communication thus far as the beauty of the art attracts the community and calms them down before they ask any question. Something else that has surprised us is that there has not been a single act of vandalism towards the mural which shows you the respect people accord art. As we conclude this Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we are reminded of the timelessness of art that a piece inspired by 16 days of activism would speak to this theme so loudly as well. It is important to put more murals across the country that speak to different struggles faced by sexual and gender minorities to achieve our goal of attitude change in the general public.