Blank Noise

Blank Noise's "I Never Ask For It" mission aims to counter victim-blaming by gathering clothing testimonies. This ongoing initiative encourages individuals to share the clothes they wore during experiences of sexual violence, turning these garments into witnesses and voices of those encounters. By 2023, the goal is to collect 10,000 garment testimonials, symbolizing unity against victim-blaming. Through this mission, Blank Noise seeks to provide a healing process for survivors, where their voices are heard and believed, ultimately shifting public perception and fostering collective responsibility. Over the years, thousands of contributors, including Action Sheroes, allies, and institutions, have built this mission, gaining recognition from various media outlets.

Blank Noise's "Reporting To Remember" initiative addresses the systemic victim blaming that perpetuates violence against women. Across cultures and nations, violence has often been excused in the name of honour, culture, and more, leading to a blame and shame culture that silences survivors. This environment has tragically led to suicides among women and girls who fear not being believed. This interconnected web of victim blaming sustains a cycle of violence and is deeply ingrained in collective memory. "Reporting To Remember" is a collaborative research project committed to documenting instances of sexual and gender-based violence that have been justified through victim blaming. It empowers individuals to become active contributors, aiming to challenge victim blaming, preserve memory, and foster systemic change.

"Meet To Sleep" is a collective feminist movement involving sleeping outdoors as a form of protest. This action challenges the fear and warnings ingrained in women's experiences, aiming to create a new narrative within public spaces. By sleeping together, participants resist the need for constant vigilance, offering a new perspective on their bodies and surroundings. This movement signifies the right to be vulnerable and defenceless, working to establish a fresh collective memory rooted in pride and belonging. The initiative emphasizes healing and transformation, replacing fear, shame, and violation with solidarity and empowerment. Collaborating with feminist allies, women's rights organisations, and collectives worldwide, "Meet To Sleep" underscores the strength of feminist organising and solidarity. Initiated by Jasmeen Patheja in 2008, the movement's first public action occurred in 2014.

Talk To Me is an intervention program conducted by Blank Noise, which aims to defuse tension and hostility in potentially threatening situations. Two strangers are brought together for a one-hour conversation where they sit face-to-face and discuss various topics, excluding sexual violence. Invitations are extended to strangers through multilingual letters, encouraging them to engage over tea and samosas. The dialogue encompasses subjects such as fears, hopes, and dreams, fostering connection and understanding between individuals. Conducted by Action Sheroes, Theyroes, and Heroes from Blank Noise, this initiative contributes to the creation of safe urban environments and spaces, inviting others to join as well.

District

Bangalore

New Delhi

Mumbai

States

Karnataka

Delhi

Maharashtra

Being Idle is an initiative by Blank Noise that invites women and girls to reclaim their status as citizens by embracing a state of bold idleness. This movement, active from 2006 to 2009, empowers participants to become Action Sheroes, Heroes, or Theyroes by rejecting societal warnings, engaging in eye contact, and standing idly against city railings. This practice allows them to redefine their relationship with their urban environment. Blank Noise chapters across India, including cities like Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, and more, encouraged citizens to join this movement, fostering solidarity and unity. Through various online platforms and communication channels, Being Idle Action Sheroes/Theyroes/Heroes communities were formed, bringing people together to challenge social norms and advocate for change.