The public is invited to Spirit Square later this month for the Clothesline Project, a display aimed at raising awareness about violence against women.

The event takes place Thursday, April 23, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., marking Prevention of Violence Against Women Week, which runs April 19 to 25.

The Clothesline Project features decorated T-shirts created by people affected by abuse.

The shirts are hung on a clothesline as a public display meant to highlight the impact of violence and encourage community awareness.

Participants will also have the opportunity to decorate a T-shirt to add to the display.

The project began in the United States in 1990 and has since expanded to communities around the world.

Organizers say the colours of the shirts represent different experiences, including sexual abuse, partner abuse, violence related to sexual orientation, children affected by violence and victims of homicide.

In Campbell River, the display is hosted by the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society. Additional T-shirts will also be displayed throughout the week at Rose Harbour, the organization’s second-stage housing on Dogwood Street.

Organizers say the event is intended to encourage community members to take a stand against violence against women and support those affected.

Confidential help is available locally through a number of services, including Ann Elmore Transition House, the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society, Community-Based Victim Services, the Campbell River Women’s Centre and the North Island Survivors' Healing Society.