Footage Foundation Launches 'What Would You Say To Her?' Campaign to Combat Gender-Based Violence

The Footage Foundation has initiated a groundbreaking campaign titled 'What Would You Say To Her?' in response to the distressing surge in gender-based violence (GBV) within conflict zones. This campaign aligns with the United Nations' '16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence', spotlighting a 50 percent increase in such violence in 2023 compared to the previous year. The initiative is a digital advocacy effort that encourages individuals to share messages of solidarity with survivors of GBV and displacement, creating a compassionate community around their stories.

Dr. Kristen Ali Eglinton, the Executive Director and co-founder of Footage Foundation, highlights the campaign's purpose: to offer a safe space for connecting with the narratives of women and gender-diverse individuals who have faced displacement, prejudice, and violence. The foundation's work focuses on some of the most marginalized communities globally, including those escaping persecution from hostile regimes and conflict areas. Their approach, rooted in feminist research, demonstrates how storytelling in supportive environments can promote self-compassion, reduce shame, and enhance a sense of belonging.

The campaign website showcases stories from the Girl-talk-Girl platform, the largest digital storytelling initiative on GBV, featuring voices from Afghanistan, Ukraine, Russia, Kazakhstan, Syria, and Cameroon. These narratives, like that of Rani from Syria, who dreams of a peaceful life free from violence, underscore the campaign's mission to illuminate the human toll of GBV and displacement. Beyond raising awareness, 'What Would You Say To Her?' urges leaders and policymakers to enact and enforce laws to prevent and address GBV effectively.

Footage Foundation's innovative use of storytelling serves as a bridge for healing, learning, and fostering compassion and connection. Their research underscores the importance of equitable treatment in building belonging and combating the dehumanization often faced by those in crises. By engaging the public to reflect on and respond to these stories, the campaign challenges the narratives of fear and separation, advocating for a world where everyone is seen, heard, and valued. This initiative marks a pivotal step in the global fight against gender-based violence, leveraging digital platforms to amplify marginalized voices and inspire collective action for change.