Let’s Speak Out Project

A key part of the Let's Speak Out project used a Photovoice approach to enable young women who experienced sexual violence during or after the civil war to express their stories. According to PCI Media Impact, "Photovoice is a unique, innovative, and contemporary form of communication especially suited for hard-to-reach populations and sensitive subjects. The Photovoice method centers around taking photographs, but also involves learning to express opinions, to interpret and discuss images, to work as part of a group, to develop ideas and a voice, to edit and caption images, and to identify and define audience and messages." By using photography as a way to tell stories, "the project hopes to break the silence on this violence, acting as a catalyst for social change throughout Liberia."

PCI Media Impact worked with young women living at a place of safety run by THINK (Touching Humanity in Need of Kindness). "Ranging from ages 13 to 24, half of them already mothers and most below a fourth grade reading level, these girls have heart-wrenching stories to tell. None have ever used a camera before and most have never had a photo taken of themselves. Equipped with cameras and knowledge about how to use them, each becomes a powerful agent of change." As one of the girls explained, "If other girls are going to change and have different experiences in life, then they will have to learn from our example."

Guided by the overarching theme "What does it mean to be a woman in Liberia?", the women at THINK learned the basics of participatory photography throughout a week-long workshop. Engaging in small, focused discussions, the girls chose six photos that represented their experiences as a woman in Liberia in the past, present, and future. The week concluded with a gallery walk, presentation, and discussion of their favourite photos. The stories can be found online on the THINK Photovoice Liberia website.

In addition to the Photovoice project, a Liberian rapper named Takun J worked closely with the young women at the THINK home, learning their stories and incorporating their experiences and hardship into the lyrics of two songs: "Where You At?" and "Song for Hawa". PCI Media Impact premiered the "Song for Hawa" music video to 700 change-makers at a United Nations Commission on the Status of Women kickoff event. Takun J and other musicians and a comedian have also been part of county tours to raise awareness and entertain communities in Liberia while also educating them about the issue. Each tour includes visits to local schools, radio stations, and community concerts.

In collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Government of Liberia, PCI Media Impact also produced a children's book called "Sara Let's Speak Out", part of a series that encourages children to play positive roles in their communities. In this volume, Sara, the main character of the series, demonstrates how students can help break the silence surrounding child rape by speaking out about the abuse and supporting peer victims.

Gender Violence