The training was organized by South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network (SSHRDN).
The art clinic aims to provide supportive safe environment for human rights defenders to explore and express their emotions through artistic medium to foster self-awareness and emotional regulation skills through creative process.
In South Sudan, human rights defenders often face immense challenges that lead to stress and burnout in relentless struggle for fundamental human rights.
Aartistic therapy offers powerful tool for self-care and recovery which provided human rights defenders with unique platform for expression and restoration.
Through engaging in activities such as painting, music, spoken word and dance, human rights defenders are able to handle their emotions, process trauma, and reflect on their experiences within a safe and creative space.
The Head of Secretariat for South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network, James Bidal said the therapeutic approach empowers defenders to articulate their deepest thoughts and emotions, stimulating self-awareness and resilience in the face of hard times.
“Artistic therapy equips human rights defenders with the strength and endurance needed to continue with their work of protecting promotion of human rights in the Republic of South Sudan. Inspired by the transformative power of artistic expression these HRDs will continue to champion the cause of human rights protection with renewed strengthen and compassion,” he said.
The training model provided a holistic mental health and human services that enhances the well-being of HRDs through engaging in active art creation, utilizing the creative process, applying psychological principles, and drawing from human experiences within a therapeutic context so as to facilitate healing and prevent burnout.
The training program includes a variety of artistic modalities such as painting, poetry, and music, providing participants with diverse avenues for self-expression and healing. Through guided sessions and workshops, attendees learn how to utilize these creative outlets to process their experiences, release pent-up emotions, and cultivate inner strength.
According to James Aguer Garang, the art facilitator, emotional trauma among activists is a harsh reality.
Unlike physical wounds, emotional trauma can linger for years, often worsening if left untreated.
“Many human rights defenders face psychological challenges that accumulate over time, impacting their mental well-being and capacity to continue their vital work,” said Garang.
In our line of duty, we encounter situations that leave deep emotional scars,” stated Monica Auguer, a Woman human rights defender. “Art therapy offers us a way to confront and heal from these wounds, allowing us to sustain our resilience and effectiveness. Through music, poetry, and painting, I’ve found comfort and strength to deal with the emotional challenges”.
The South Sudan Human Rights Defenders Network prioritize the mental health and emotional resilience within the human rights. It aims to foster a culture of self-care and mutual support among HRDs ensuring their long-term sustainability and effectiveness in promoting human rights in South Sudan
