Violence against women is a horrific and oppressive reality the world over, but with the recent global publicity of the torturous gang-rape in Delhi, violence against women - especially sexual violence - is taking the stage in an entirely different spotlight in India. On Valentine's Day, I joined NGOs and concerned citizens in Cubbon Park, Bangalore, to sing, dance, act, paint, and ultimately say "No" to violence against women.
India is a culture that is permeated by struggles for women's rights, but also that is filled with strong women and men who are standing up for justice. The use of art at this event was especially powerful. Not only was art on display, but the participant was invited to paint banners, join dances and mimes, or take a canvas to the grassy lawn to paint their response; to enter the struggle. I have hope that this year may be the year of the woman in India, beginning to build a solid foundation for the rights of generations to come.
To learn more about the movements to say "No" to violence against women, visit www.onebillionrising.org.
India is a culture that is permeated by struggles for women's rights, but also that is filled with strong women and men who are standing up for justice. The use of art at this event was especially powerful. Not only was art on display, but the participant was invited to paint banners, join dances and mimes, or take a canvas to the grassy lawn to paint their response; to enter the struggle. I have hope that this year may be the year of the woman in India, beginning to build a solid foundation for the rights of generations to come.
To learn more about the movements to say "No" to violence against women, visit www.onebillionrising.org.
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