Eye-catching illustration on walls of former nightclub are part of city council’s wider campaign to share information on how those experiencing domestic abuse can access support.
Birmingham is one of 35 cities around the world involved in the Inform Women, Transform Lives initiative launched by the Carter Center in the US to promote policy and practical solutions at both local and global level so that women can access information with which to transform their lives and play an active role in society.
In Birmingham, the focus of the campaign is on domestic abuse support services and, in that context, highlighting the importance of improving women’s access to information.
After a city-wide call for artwork that could capture these aspirations, local artist Melita Berg was chosen to produce a mural. The striking work, which took two weeks to create, can be found on the former Oceana nightclub in a prominent part of the city, on the corner of Hurst Street and Smallbrook Queensway.
The Carter Center provided $10,000 (some £7,900) for the artwork; the project has also been supported by Southside District.
Melita Berg says: ‘The project means a great deal to me as I know abuse is often done in secret, so it could be your colleague, family member or a friend who is hiding their pain. Women should be celebrated, liberated and feel loved. If it is not the case, no matter what background or walk of life they are in, there is always someone who will listen, help and support them.
‘As a woman painting in the street of a busy city centre, I was exposed to daily verbal abuse and attempts to intimidate me. This has made it even clearer that access to information about local services is essential for women’s safety and well-being. I want for the mural to give the power back to the women – to speak up, to seek help, to open up or to walk away. No matter how big of a step you are ready to take, seeking information can be the first one. I hope local women feel empowered to seek advice.’
Cllr Nicky Brennan, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities at Birmingham City Council, adds: ‘All over Birmingham and beyond, information can empower women: it strengthens their voices, enables them to participate fully in society and decision-making, with access to public services, education and employment.
‘Whether it’s knowing where to go to online for help, how to access council services or to find support within their local communities – informed women can transform their lives. It is also about enabling women and girls in every neighbourhood feel empowered, speak up and take up opportunities as a result of being able to make informed decisions about their lives.’
In related news:
Politics over children’s wellbeing? Starmer struggles with two child benefit cap
Turning tragedies into triumphs: Meet support worker Kitty O’Brien