A global movement empowering women

Recently, SheDecides Bangladesh hosted an exhibition called, "Art-vism", which incorporated art and activism to promote bodily autonomy and rights.

SheDecides is a global political movement that was launched as a response to defend women's fundamental rights and bodily autonomy against a policy imposed by former US President Donald Trump, which restricted funding for NGOs in foreign countries that supported abortion advocacy.

The global movement, which empowers women at societal and policy-making levels, has now spread over to 27 countries, including an active chapter in Bangladesh, which started out in 2019.

It aspires to create a society in Bangladesh where women and girls are empowered through raising awareness on bodily autonomy and human rights, sexual and reproductive health, and gender based violence, engaging feminist and youth leadership.

 "Young girls face even more blockades to care than older adolescents, in terms of access to proper services and information," explained Samara Mortada, Movement Supporter at SheDecides.

Artworks on display at ““Art-vism”.

Samara started out as the Regional Movement Supporter for the Asia region. Now, her current role entails supporting 15 grassroots collectives globally, starting from Portugal, Northern Ireland, Namibia, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, among other countries.

 "All our initiatives, which include a radio show 'In her shoes', art therapy sessions, debate competitions and collaboration with influencers and activists to create awareness about bodily autonomy— were able to get the attention of the young people, especially young women who are looking for a platform to express their feelings and thoughts around bodily autonomy. SheDecides Bangladesh is planning to hold many more activities to engage young people," added their Core Project Lead Najia Jarin.

SheDecides has made connections with activists across the world who champion women empowerment. In Bangladesh too, it has created a space for young people to come together and work on sexual reproductive health and rights.

Recently, SheDecides Bangladesh hosted an exhibition called, "Art-vism", which incorporated art and activism to promote bodily autonomy and rights. The two- day event involved live painting and community art therapy sessions, alongside different performances. 

"We are in the process of designing our new strategy. We will be able to talk more about it when things are finalised. But SheDecides will continue to be a safe space for activists, champions and young people to be able to work towards  a world where women decide their futures," concluded Samara.

The author is a freelance journalist.