Invermere Hosts Clothesline Project to Raise Awareness of Domestic Abuse

A significant event aimed at raising awareness of domestic abuse will take place in Invermere, British Columbia, from December 5 to 7, 2023. The Clothesline Project, organized by Family Dynamix (FDX), will feature a display of decorated t-shirts and a community-created ceramic quilt to highlight personal stories of survivors.

The initiative addresses the pervasive stigma surrounding domestic violence and aims to foster open conversations within the community. Many survivors, like Alice (not her real name), have shared their experiences, revealing the complexities of seeking help. “For seven years, I endured emotional, mental, physical, and financial abuse at the hands of my now ex-husband,” Alice recounted. She described her struggles with fear and isolation, stating, “I concealed my pain with a brave face as if everything was perfectly fine.”

Alice’s story is reflective of a broader issue faced by many victims, who often find themselves trapped in cycles of abuse. After a particularly harrowing incident, she finally reached out to FDX, where she found a supportive environment. “I soon met with a support worker and was instantly met with care and compassion,” she explained. This crucial support led to Alice and her children finding safety and, eventually, independence.

Community Engagement Through Art

Dru Wagner, the Sexual Assault Support Services Coordinator and Women’s Outreach Worker with FDX, spearheaded the Clothesline Project after learning about it at a domestic violence conference in Nelson. “We want to start conversations and get people thinking,” Wagner stated. The project began in October 1990 in Hyannis, Massachusetts, where visual artist Rachel Carey-Harper created the concept. Initially featuring 31 shirts, it has since expanded to over 500 similar projects globally.

The Clothesline Project serves as a powerful visual representation of survivors’ stories. Traditionally associated with women, the clothesline symbolizes the sharing of experiences and support. During the event at the Invermere Public Library, participants will have the opportunity to paint and hang t-shirts, expressing their narratives through art.

In addition to the t-shirt display, FDX is collaborating with Carm Haven Studios to create a symbolic ceramic quilt, which will be unveiled during the event. Community members can participate in tile painting sessions scheduled for November 4, 5, and 6. “Carm would prefer that anyone interested in painting a tile can call our office at 250-341-3963 to register for one of these nights,” Wagner added.

Wagner emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the project. “This is personal to each person who participates, whether it is for them or someone they love,” she said. The t-shirts donated by the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Thrift Store will feature various colors representing different types of abuse, allowing participants to convey their messages effectively.

Creating a Safe Space for Dialogue

The event aims to break the silence surrounding domestic violence. Members of FDX will be available to provide information and support for anyone seeking help during the Clothesline Project. Wagner noted, “The most powerful message we can send is you are not alone: a person experiencing abuse can feel so isolated.”

Alice’s transformation from victim to survivor is a testament to the support available through organizations like FDX. She now works alongside them to help others navigate their own journeys to safety. “I couldn’t have done it alone, and I didn’t have to,” she reflected. “Recovering from trauma is different for everyone, and I am still healing. I decided to leave and live, and that’s exactly what I’m doing.”

The Clothesline Project serves not just as an artistic endeavor but as a lifeline for many in the community. By participating, individuals can honor their experiences and those of others, fostering a sense of solidarity and hope for a brighter future.