Clothesline Project shows stark realities of domestic violence

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (KVRR) – At UND the Clothesline Project is presenting the community with the stark realities of domestic violence.

“When they walked through they could feel that others that see this know that now they’re not alone.”

The Clothesline Project is a display of shirts and artwork created by survivors of violence and the families of victims lost, sharing the stories and the effects of interpersonal violence.

“There’s emotion, and we do see tears and really strong reactions. But we also see a lot of thanks for hosting this, just to raise that awareness.”

The exhibit features a gong, whistle and bell signifying how many people are battered, raped, or killed by an intimate partner.

“People are surprised. Especially in the Midwest we like to think that’s not my business, I don’t need to worry about that, I don’t need to get involved in that. But we really want to make it our business.”

The exhibit confronts viewers with the realities of domestic violence, reminding those who haven’t experienced it of the prevalence and letting victims know that they are not alone.

“As individuals are walking through, and seeing that and hearing that, it kinda is that lightbulb. Like ‘Oh my gosh’ chances are if they haven’t experienced it themselves that they know someone.”

Allison Burkman with The Community Violence Intervention Center says that she is hopeful that events like the Clothesline Project, and their Take Back The Night Rally can help to bring awareness of the issues, and hopefully eliminate interpersonal violence entirely.

“Even attending this display, taking it in and processing it, and then having a conversation with somebody else about it, is just another person learning about intimate partner violence.”