A powerful new artistic initiative is bringing heightened visibility to the subtle yet devastating realities of emotional and psychological abuse. Creator Octavia Nicholas, in partnership with the national Gender Affairs Division, has unveiled an eight-part spoken word series designed to educate the public on these often-overlooked facets of domestic violence.
Inspired by Nicholas’s own literary work, ‘Surviving a Narcissist,’ the project strategically coincides with the global observance of International Women’s Day on March 8th. The series employs a compelling fusion of spoken word poetry and expressive dance to articulate the hidden trauma of non-physical abuse, which frequently manifests through control and manipulation long before any physical altercation occurs.
Nicholas emphasized the profound intent behind the project, stating, ‘This project is more than poetry — it is purpose.’ She elaborated that the collection is a resonant tapestry of survival, healing, and ultimate empowerment, drawing from both her personal journey and the testimonies shared within her book.
The public is actively encouraged to engage with the daily releases by following the online platforms of both Octavia Nicholas and the Gender Affairs Division. The initiative calls for widespread viewing and sharing to maximize its educational impact and foster a broader community dialogue on identifying and combating all forms of coercive control.