DESI DIARY

VIRTUAL FESTIVAL ADDRESSES GENDER DISPARITY THROUGH ART

Image credit: BRUCE MARS on Unsplash.

A multi-day virtual festival is all set to address concerns associated with gender disparity and gender equity through the medium of art.

Her Voice will showcase a virtual visual arts exhibition and a series of virtual workshops, focused towards building meaningful partnerships and shining the light on the integral role played by women and girls from visible minorities in building strong communities.

The virtual event will be hosted on Facebook Live on August 1 and 2. Funded by Canadian Heritage, it will focus on encouraging a constructive conversation around the role and participation of girls and women of colour in today’s society. Through a series of virtual workshops and events, it will address concerns and challenges related to gender gap and equity through art and performing arts.

“Women of colour have been silent about the challenges they face,” says Shirin Mandani, president of Artists and Artisans Development and Network. “Through this festival, our goal is to give newcomer and immigrant women a voice to place their concerns and issues through the social media platform. Artists and Artisans Development and Network is governed by women and makes strides towards events focusing on gender equity, equality, and empowerment. As a strong advocate of gender equity, I personally believe that in order to have your voice heard, you first need to be offered a seat at the table. Through this event, we are trying to do that.”

Artists and Artisans Development and Network is also working on an app that will feature exclusive content on the topics addressed as well as a list of resources users can go to for more information.

The festival is supported by Canin Cultural Council.

“Canin Cultural Council has always been a strong advocate for women and the arts,” says Khalid Sayed, president, Canin Cultural Council.

More info at www.artistsandartisans.org.