The Clothesline Project during Sexual Abuse Awareness Week. The Clothesline Project has a two fold goal: to provide a safe forum for people to speak out about the abuse and to educate the public about the extent, prevalence, and impact of violence. Yes, each of these shirts have been made for a specific individual, and, remember, many survivors have not had the opportunity to make shirts or have them made for them. Few avenues exist for people to speak openly and honestly about the violence they have experienced, and in bringing the Clothesline, we hope to open at least one more avenue. Although making a shirt can be wrenching, seeing the story allows many survivors to own their pain and express their anger.

The Clothesline Project is a nation-wide grassroots movement which bears witness to the violence that people experience. The shirts are created by survivors and their family, friends, and allies. Although Smith is part of the Pioneer Valley Clothesline Project, all of the shirts that are hung at Smith have been made by Smith students, faculty, prospective students, and staff since 1994. The project is sponsored by SAFE as part of Sexual Abuse Awareness Week.   As an educational medium, it is the first public movement of its kind that links together the different forms of violence. It brings viewers face to face with painful and courageous stories, exposing a side of life that for too long has remained a silent and destructive force. It is not about being sorry for victims, it is about people reclaiming their lives and finding the strength to proclaim an end to the history of violence.   All are welcome to make a shirt; you can make a shirt for yourself or for a friend, family member, or loved one who has been abused. SAFE provides supplies, or you can bring your own. There will be a table at The Clothesline Project during Sexual Abuse Awareness Week in April. Please feel free to make a shirt there, or to bring one to us that you have made at home.