Every so often I get invited to speak at a public event – which over the years has become an important aspect of our work at Justice in Motion.
Being able to speak publicly about the arts and social justice is a great privilege and has two meaningful purposes. It helps highlight the issues we bring to life through the theatre, it also advocates for the value performing arts can have in impacting and inspiring positive social change in our culture and society. In the past few years, I have been recognised as one of the leading voices in the field, which is a great affirmation of the importance and relevance of our work.
But why would I care about that?
Because for many years I wanted to speak up about injustices, do something, help, give hope, advocate for a better future, and yet I felt like an insignificant voice, that didn’t have the clout or a platform to do so. I’m sure that many people feel that way.
Once I realised though, that if I combined my skills in the performing arts with my deep passion for human rights, I was able to address those issues I care about, not only in 1-2-1 conversations, but nationally – perhaps, globally. Since then I’ve had many invitations to speak about my journey.
I have talked about our work and the impact we have as a performing company in raising awareness about Modern Slavery at the Modern Slavery and Ethical Labour in Construction Leadership Symposium 2018, as well as during the UK Top100 Corporate Modern Slavery Influencers’ Index Dinner that same year.
I have made presentations at the Business and Human Rights Symposium (OxBHR), HSBC’s Anti-Slavery Event, the CIOB Members Forum, and I’ve had the opportunity to address staff and clients at BRE’s (Building Research Establishment) Winter Reception, spoken at panels at Hull Freedom Festival, Roehampton University, Oxford Brookes University, ASIOX Fundraiser for Unseen, Emerge Conference at Said Business School, Rose Bruford, RAAH Festival, and most recently at the Ripples of Hope Festival.
This year, I am delighted to be speaking at TEDx Oxford on 29th January 2022, sharing the stage with several other influential and inspiring speakers with my latest talk “Justice in Motion: A movement to move you”.
Being given a voice, not for my sake – but to speak up for the many people whose voices go unnoticed or unheard is an honour. Promoting the arts and all I am passionate about, is a great joy.
I look forward to many more opportunities and ways to share our stories.
Anja Meinhardt
Artistic Director