Art and advocacy have been brought together in a bold, meaningful way as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) started its contribution to the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on Thursday.
As part of its campaign, UNFPA engaged children and volunteers in painting a mural at the Eastern outer wall of the Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah.
According to the Head of its T&T Liaison Office, Candice Wallace, this creative public artwork served as a powerful call for awareness and action on the issue.
“So as we launch the mural today, I invite you to sit with its messages. Let its colours stay with you the next time you pass the Savannah.”
She said this method was used as it could reach hundreds of persons daily while showcasing Trinidad and Tobago’s culture.
“Every day, hundreds of persons pass through the area: families out for an evening stroll, couples walking hand in hand, friends on a nightly lime, fitness groups, runners. And in Trinidad and Tobago, where culture is how we breathe, this approach matters. Our art, our Carnival, our music, our creativity are part of our social DNA. So when we talk about entering the orange economy, which I think through this initiative we’ve done, we are talking about using what is already powerful in our region.”
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign observed annually from November 25th to December 10th. This year, the campaign focuses on a modern threat: digital violence against women and girls.
High Commissioner of Canada to Trinidad and Tobago, Michael Callan, called for an end to gender-based violence, especially in online spaces, and urged citizens to use the internet to make a positive impact.
“Do the right thing, just be responsible online citizens. Whether you’re making a comment or dropping in on TikTok or Instagram, stay positive, check yourself and take a moment, take a step back and think about how you can make someone’s day better.”
Student volunteer Gabrielle Jackson said she felt proud that she made a contribution to such a meaningful project.
“Something I’ve always wanted to do from since I was young is leave a legacy on the earth for after my passing, and so I feel good about myself to know every time I pass the Savannah, when I’m training, on my daily routes, I know that I contributed to something as powerful as that.”