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In a poignant response to a rising tide of femicides in Lima, Peruvian photographer Ana Elisa Sotelo orchestrated a powerful act of solidarity in early 2023. Inviting women to join her in the waters off Playa Agua Dulce, Sotelo sought to create a moment of collective strength and resilience against the backdrop of pervasive gender violence. What emerged was a striking image, aptly named “Women’s Circle,” which encapsulates both the anger and sisterhood that permeated the event.
A Symbol of Sisterhood
The photograph, taken in mid-March, captures a group of women who, after hearing of the femicides that had shaken their community, gathered to swim together as an act of defiance and unity. “The kicking and screaming occurred naturally,” Sotelo recalls, as the women formed a circle in the water, shedding not just their swimsuits but the weight of fear that often accompanies discussions of gender-based violence.
Sotelo’s journey began in 2022 with her project “Women of the Water” in Puerto Natales, Chile. Initially aimed at celebrating female empowerment through photography, the project quickly evolved in response to the escalating violence against women. Upon returning to Lima, she transformed her vision into an open call, utilising social media to spread the word while ensuring an environment free from male onlookers. “We did not want any male peepers to be present,” she stated, underscoring the necessity of creating a safe space for women to express their solidarity.
Creating a Safe Space
On the day of the event, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. Participants arrived before dawn, greeted by Sotelo and a team of volunteers ready to ensure their safety on the water. The theme “Alive and Fearless,” emblazoned on vests designed by fellow artist Ana De Orbegoso, set the tone for a gathering steeped in empowerment and resilience.
Once in the water, the women swam freely for about twenty minutes, allowing the chill of the sea and the thrill of the moment to wash over them. The camaraderie was palpable, as each woman supported the others, fostering a sense of community that transcended their individual fears and anxieties.
Upon returning to shore, the smiles were infectious. Many women rushed back to their everyday lives, perhaps feeling a renewed sense of hope and purpose. Yet, as Sotelo reflects on this moment, she grapples with the grim reality that, three years later, the world feels more perilous, with discussions around gender violence waning from the forefront of public consciousness.
A Growing Concern
Despite the powerful imagery and the solidarity expressed that day, the persistence of gender-based violence is a sobering reality not only in Peru but globally. The urgency that once surrounded these critical conversations seems to have diminished, leaving many to wonder if the momentum for change can be reignited.
Sotelo’s reflections raise a poignant question: if she were to issue a similar call today, would women still respond with the same fervour? Has the creeping shadow of fear stifled the solidarity that was so vibrant just a few years ago?
Why it Matters
The “Women’s Circle” is more than just a photograph; it is a testament to the resilience of women in the face of violence and oppression. It highlights the critical need for continued dialogue and action against gender violence. As societies grapple with these issues, it is vital to maintain the momentum of solidarity and ensure that the voices calling for justice and safety do not fade into silence. The image serves as a reminder that while fear may linger, the strength of community can illuminate paths to healing and change.
