GAGGA® Booklet

Context

GAGGA needed a digital booklet and social media posts. The booklet is intended for legacy donors to communicate research findings about African, Latin American, and Asian women and girls who are defending the environment.

Process

During the process of creating the illustrations, we brainstormed and I made sketches without much detail in order to outline the number of characters and elements. When I was clear about the elements and their quantities and had presented the sketches on the booklet's pages, I began to create the illustrations.

I created four main characters and a community character to tell the story of land and resource exploitation and the fight for justice. This story showed how the community could come together to fight for their rights and reclaim their resources, illustrating the power of collective action.

Illustrations

Characters in the story were very diverse and from all different backgrounds. For instance, the lead character was an African American woman in her late fifties who had a strong sense of self-determination and a passion for justice.

 

Each character is shown in an empowering position and action. It was extremely important to tell a story with complexity that reflects the reality of communities. By showing characters in positions of power and taking action, the story highlights the strength and resilience of those communities. It also gives viewers the opportunity to see a different side of the story, which helps to create a more nuanced and accurate representation.

Learning

In the end, the booklet was beautiful and moving. The booklet was well received by donors and staff of related organizations.

My experience as an immigrant and as a woman has taught me the importance of gender equality and inclusivity in creating a better world and resolving global crises. The only way we can promote a fair world is by representing communities and people with the biggest needs for support.  By including diverse voices in decision-making, we can make sure that the needs of the most vulnerable are addressed. This will help to promote equality and create a more equitable world where all individuals, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or nationality, are able to access resources and opportunities.

Everyone deserves to be seen, especially when they are experiencing exploitation and crisis. For instance, including people with disabilities in the decision-making process could provide a platform for them to advocate for their own rights and needs in order to co-create policies and laws that are more inclusive and accessible.