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They are also invited to strengthen the impact of the Thursdays in Black campaign by recognizing “trailblazers” who have made a real impact in raising awareness about gender-based violence in their communities and networks.
One such trailblazer is Janine Marja Schneider, the artist behind the Waterfall of Solidary and Resistance currently on display in the Gartenhalle. Not only did she design and sew the over six by eight meter tapestry, she reached out to schools, churches, and women’s groups to raise awareness of the initiative, and the opportunity to share stories through art in a common effort to overcome gender-based violence.
As Schneider sewed together each 30x30cm panel, she thought of the women behind their artistic contribution and what they represent: “I think of each one of you women friends who have gone through what you have, or had a loved one who went through violence, and that we want a different world.”
The WCC wants to recognize and highlight the initiatives of such “Trailblazers” – young people, pastors, lay leaders, survivors – who have reached out and through their commitment, energy, and innovation, made Thursdays in Black a global movement of solidarity and hope.
The Thursdays in Black Trailblazers initiative aims to inspire and multiply our collective efforts against rape and violence.
For more information on the intiative and how to nominate a trailblazer, visit www.oikoumene.org/trailblazers.
#ThursdaysinBlack Waterfall of Solidarity and Resistance video
Livestream of the WCC 11th Assembly in Karlsruhe, Germany
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1 September 2022, Karlsruhe, Germany: Assembly participants from Finland gather for a group photo in front of a tapestry supporting the campaign against gender-based violence that hangs at the World Council of Churches' 11th Assembly in Karlsruhe, Germany. The tapestry is designed as a waterfall with messages and images from around the world. The assembly takes place August 31 to September 8 under the theme "Christ's Love Moves the World to Reconciliation and Unity."
Mike DuBose/WCC
