AVONDALE, Arizona – In recognition of October's Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) is presenting its annual Clothesline Project on Oct. 1 – 22, 2014.
The Clothesline Project is an educational exhibit for and about people who have been affected, or know someone who has been affected, by domestic violence. The T-shirts, created by community members, EMCC students and employees, are used as a creative “canvas” to express emotions and communicate messages of its creator, then hung on a clothesline to create an impactful educational experience for viewers.
Dr. Olga Tsoudis, a Behavioral Sciences and Cultural Studies professor at EMCC and passionate social activist, has been the catalyst behind this event since 2006.
“These T-shirts allow silenced voices to be heard, and help to educate our students and community about the issues that affect men, women and children of domestic violence.”
The exhibit is displayed on the Estrella Hall Lawn at the EMCC campus, located at 3000 North Dysart in Avondale, and is free and open to the public. The clothesline creates a large circle, spanning the circumference of the ampitheatre lawn.
She points out to her students that social awareness of domestic violence doesn’t end in October, and that it should be everyone’s concern, not just those who have experienced or been affected by it.
"This project is not just about awareness; it is meant to be an experience which provides resources for positive solutions and generate active community engagement," said Tsoudis.