The Institute of Gender Research, Education and Development (IGRED), a gender-based advocacy organisation with a focus on speaking on issues affecting women, and girls, is receiving submissions from spoken word artistes for its ‘Open Mic Against Rape Culture’ campaign.

This follows the launch of the institute’s ‘Artistic Gender Advocacy’ edition with a theme to fight rape culture in society.

IGRED is, therefore, calling on “all talented spoken word artistes, who are genuinely passionate about the fight against rape, to submit a written and one-minute audio version of their piece via our email”.

“The deadline for submission is 7 July 2020”, the group said in a statement, adding: “Shortlisted poets will be contacted for a free professional coverage of their spoken word recitals, which will be used for educational and advocacy purposes, with social media as a driving tool.”

“Both males and females are eligible to make submissions, however, females and persons living with disability are more encouraged to participate”, the group said.

It noted that the most shared and engaged piece will receive a cash prize of USD100 while the second most shared and engaged piece on social media will receive a prize of USD50.

According to IGRED, it acknowledges that “rape is a serious crime which calls for persistent action by every member of society, in order to effectively eliminate the socio-cultural pillars which provide a thriving place for perpetration.”

However, it said, “in spite of the prevalence of this canker”, rape only “receives massive attention occasionally, when another horrendous case re-surfaces”.

IGRED said its Artistic Gender Advocacy is set to use the captivating effects of art to address important issues with maintained persistence.

The group aims to “consistently educate and advocate positive change in mindsets and behaviours which subjugate, disrepute and harm women and girls”.

The use of the art of spoken word poetry in its maiden programme will, thus, enable the group to “address the trivialisation of rape, victim-blaming, and highlight other issues to demand a wide introspection on how rape has comfortably prevailed because society has actively allowed it to.”