They’ve hung their stories out for all to see … literally.
That’s what visitors can expect when they visit the Domestic Abuse Shelter of the Florida Keys’ Clothesline Project, running through October at Marathon Community Theatre. Designed to highlight Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Clothesline Project allows survivors of domestic violence to give a visual or written representation of their experiences by decorating shirts that are hung on a clothesline in public spaces.
A topic often avoided due to its complex and uncomfortable nature, domestic violence is far more common than most would expect; one in three women, and one in seven men, will become a victim at some point in their lives. “It’s stunning,” said Jennifer Powell, board president for the Domestic Abuse Shelter. “Domestic violence is such a secret, private topic. Most women are too afraid or don’t have the opportunity to talk about it. People around them don’t want to hear about it, and victims aren’t believed.”
Beyond the uncomfortable conversations, Powell said, many don’t fully understand the scope of domestic violence. “Victims are experiencing assault or coercive behaviors that include physical, sexual, psychological and economic abuse that one partner asserts over the other. It’s any choice that a partner makes to disrespect, demean and hurt their partner in order to control or manipulate them.”
The Clothesline Project’s origins trace back to the 1950s and ’60s, when housewives believed that the only safe place to talk about their experiences was in the backyard while hanging up laundry. The national project covers not only domestic abuse, but related topics like sexual assault and attacks based on sexual orientation, race and political views. Typically, the project occupies a large public space with dozens of shirts decorated by survivors. Different colored shirts denote the types of abuse each participant survived.
At MCT’s Clothesline Project, Monroe County participants who have used the Domestic Abuse Shelter’s services tell their stories on shirts through written accounts, powerful sayings, or even painted pieces. The shirts range from anguished accounts and stern warnings (“You said you loved me!” and “Don’t get burned by the same flame twice!”) to reminders of hope and a better future for survivors: “You are worthy of healthy love.” Some have even courageously paired their names with their stories by signing their work.
While the project is primarily designed to bring awareness, there are several opportunities to support the Domestic Abuse Shelter’s work. Miniature T-shirt pins made by volunteers are available for purchase, and although it wasn’t originally intended, most of the exhibited shirts are now for sale after inquiries from guests. In addition, raffle tickets are available for a “Lunar Celebration” Wyland lithograph valued at $1,995. Raffle tickets are $100 and can be purchased through a DAS board member or by visiting go.rallyup.com/recover.
