Sydney Galindo writes about the ideas that shaped our version of the traveling poster exhibition, Women’s Rights are Human Rights: International Posters on Gender-Based Inequality, Violence, and Discrimination.
During my graduate internship at the Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, I had the honor of coauthoring Women’s Rights are Human Rights: International Posters on Gender-Based Inequality, Violence, and Discrimination. As a curator, survivor of intimate partner violence, and certified domestic violence advocate, I approached this exhibition from a deeply personal perspective.
Throughout my career, I have worked in confidential shelters for women and children, responded to crisis hotline calls, and completed specialized training in domestic violence advocacy. My role in coauthoring this exhibition was not to curate, but to collaborate with the museum team in making decisions about which pieces would be displayed on the walls of the WorkShop Gallery.
The exhibition was curated by Elizabeth Resnick, a professor emerita in Graphic Design from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design, whose thoughtful perspective highlights the intersectionality of gender-based violence and inequality, drawing attention to issues such as climate change, labor solidarity, and Indigenous sovereignty. Resnick’s work powerfully channels the global fight for gender justice through design, with posters that advocate for women’s empowerment, while challenging the patriarchal attitudes that restrict women and girls from achieving their fullest potential.
When I first read the exhibition concept, I was intrigued by how powerful the visual language of graphic design could be in advocating for women’s rights. As I began exploring the posters, however, my initial curiosity was met with a more emotional and visceral response. What I thought would be a simply engaging conversation about human rights quickly became a heavy reminder of the violence and trauma that women and survivors like me face.
While some of the images were undeniably supportive of the causes I fight for, I couldn’t help but feel a lump in my throat as certain images triggered memories and emotions tied to personal experiences. It’s important to recognize that while some artworks may be empowering to those who stand with us in solidarity, they can inadvertently retraumatize individuals who have lived through those acts. The fine line between allyship and what some call “trauma porn” is something I was acutely aware of when contributing to the selection process.
As a team, we carefully discussed and finalized the posters to be included in this exhibition with a shared understanding of the exhibition’s purpose: to raise awareness of gender-based violence and inequality while creating a safe, supportive environment for all viewers. We were guided by a collective ethos of care and respect for the survivors who might engage with the work.
One of the main considerations was limiting or entirely excluding imagery that depicted the female form in a way that could be read as exploitative or sensationalized. We were also careful with the portrayal of physical violence against women, as some posters depicted these acts in ways that could be perceived as retraumatizing rather than educational. The line between informing and re-traumatizing is delicate, and we aimed to create a space that was thoughtful in how it depicted the struggles faced by women globally.
As a curator, my goal was never to shy away from difficult conversations, but to approach these conversations with the care and respect they deserve. Art can be a powerful vehicle for social change, but it is vital that it uplifts those who are fighting for justice without exploiting their trauma. The decision-making process behind this exhibition was not only about choosing the most visually compelling works, but about creating a space where individuals can reflect on their own experiences and histories without feeling as though their pain is being commodified for the sake of art.
Resnick's exhibition stands as a testament to the ongoing fight for gender equality and the crucial role that art plays in amplifying voices, raising awareness, and driving change. At the same time, it serves as a reminder that the creation of art for activism must be approached with a deep awareness of the emotional and psychological impact it may have on those who have lived through the very struggles being represented.
Through this exhibition, I hope that viewers gain not only a deeper understanding of the global struggles that women face, but also a sense of solidarity and responsibility in standing against gender-based violence and inequality. It is my hope that as you walk through the exhibition, you will not only see the art but feel its power to affect change—both within and outside of the gallery space.
Do you need domestic violence services? The Care Center offers confidential virtual support services, holistic healing workshops, campus education and awareness events to members of the NSHE community affected by sexual violence, relationship violence, family violence, and/or stalking. Visit them at https://www.unlv.edu/carecenter
Image: an installation view of Women’s Rights are Human Rights: International Posters on Gender-Based Inequality, Violence, and Discrimination. Photo courtesy Krystal Ramirez.