Out of Shadows

Out of Shadows is a multimedia art exhibit that focuses on the stories of non-citizen survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking (hereinafter “survivors”) who have interacted in varying degrees with the criminal justice system. The exhibit will premiere on January 18, 2018 at Rush Gallery in New York City. Out of Shadows is a nonprofit organization in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) status.

Although we interact everyday with survivors, they generally remain invisible and are forced to endure their immense struggles in the shadows due to cultural and language barriers, fear of reprisal by abusers or traffickers, and fear of immigration or law enforcement due to their lack of immigration status. Despite the fact that survivors routinely enter the criminal justice system for reasons outside of their control, they remain in the system because they do not fit the mainstream narrative of trafficking or domestic violence. These invisibility issues are exacerbated by the trauma survivors have experienced, further cutting them off from society. As a result, they are forced to remain in a vicious cycle defined by fear and exploitation. By stepping out of the shadows to share their narratives in all their complexities, survivors can break the systemic cycle of invisibility.

Goals //

1.    Share: Provide a forum through which non-citizen survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking can share their stories in their own words in a safe and confidential manner.

2.    Humanize: To illustrate the direct impact U.S. policies on domestic violence, human trafficking, immigration, and the criminal justice system have on survivors and their families.

3.    Educate: Ensure that the exhibit travels throughout the U.S., specifically in voter swing states, in order to convey a different perspective on immigration issues. With relatable, recognizable, and inspiring stories, we hope to encourage bi-partisan conversations about the intersection of these issues amongst key policymakers, community stakeholders, and families across the U.S.