From Okwe Obi
Piqued by the prevailing cases of gender-based violence, inequality, and early forced child marriage, the Girl Child Value Support Initiative has adopted poetry, painting and filmmaking as strategies to combat the social vices.
Executive Director of the Initiative, Precious Samson, stated this at the flag off of what she called “ARTvocacy for Gender Justice” Project, yesterday in Abuja.
Miss Samson explained that the initiative was to explore and harness the power of arts like poetry, songs, painting and filmmaking, to raise awareness and advocate gender equality and the eradication of violence against women and girls.
According to her, “the project is poised to make a significant impact on Nigerian society.
“With a focus on training 100 young girls between the ages of 18 and 30 in a wide array of artistic disciplines, including poetry, drama, photography, scriptwriting, podcasts, filmmaking, animation, and storytelling, ARTvocacy for Gender Justice seeks to equip these individuals with the tools and platform to amplify their voices and effect meaningful change.
“This ambitious initiative aims to harness the power of art in its various forms – from poetry and song to painting and filmmaking – to raise awareness and advocate for gender equality and the eradication of violence against women and girls.”
She pointed out that, “Through the medium of art, participants in the ARTvocacy for Gender Justice project will have the opportunity to express their experiences, insights, and aspirations, while also engaging with broader audiences to foster dialogue and promote understanding.
“By leveraging art as a tool for advocacy and social change, the project aims to challenge harmful stereotypes, dismantle patriarchal structures, and ultimately create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
“The flagging off of the “ARTvocacy for Gender Justice” project represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat gender-based violence in Nigeria.
“With the support of the Girl Child Value Support Initiative and its partners, including local community organizations, government agencies, and civil society groups, this initiative has the potential to catalyze positive and lasting change across the country.
“As Nigeria continues to strive towards a future of gender equality and social justice, initiatives like ARTvocacy for Gender Justice serve as beacons of hope, inspiring individuals and communities to come together in solidarity and solidarity to build a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow.”