What inspires a person to become an activist in the fight to end violence against women and girls?
Two directors from Tahirih Justice Center took to the stage on April 28 to explore this question as part of a special, local adaption of the global “SEVEN” tour, a documentary play based on the real life stories of seven women’s rights activists.
Inspired by the global tour, The George Washington University Global Women’s Institute hosted “DC SEVEN,” an original documentary play that told the story of women activists at seven Washington, DC-based organizations, including Identity, JCADA, Sasha Bruce Youthwork, Street Sense, Tahirih, FAIR Girls, and The George Washington University’s SASA.
Devised from interviews with leaders in these organizations, “DC SEVEN” explores the different ways in which women combat a range of injustices in the DC area, including sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking.
Archi Pyati performs at “DC SEVEN,” a local adaptation of a powerful documentary play about activism.
Tahirih’s Director of Policy and Programs Archi Pyati shared her journey as part of the performance and Greater DC Director Heather L. Taylor participated as a speaker in the panel discussion that followed.
Pyati spoke about how women in her family inspired her journey into advocacy: “My grandmother was a true warrior, my mother a pioneer,” she said during her performance.
Taylor encouraged audience members to start conversations about violence against women and girls in our society.
“Engage in conversations,” Taylor said. “That’s where change starts.”
The events, including a performance of the original “SEVEN” play, were held at the Dorothy Betts Marvin Theater at George Washington University.
Featured Photo: Tahirih’s Greater DC Director Heather L. Taylor (second from the right) answers questions as part of a post-play panel at George Washington University.
