• © Tears of the soul – Irlanda Ayovi – Ecuador – Silent Tears Project

Silent Tears – Strong Women!

Turning points for women with disabilities from around the world

Listen to the audio stories of these women who experienced violence because of their disabilities. Silent Tears: Portraits of Strong Women

To address this, CBM raises awareness through the Silent Tears exhibition, which explores the violence faced by women with disabilities and advocates for their empowerment. The exhibition tells the stories of 24 women who have survived violence, showcasing their resilience and strength.

The exhibition is a collaborative work by artists Belinda Mason, Denise Beckwith, Margherita Coppolino, and Dieter Knierim.

 

Globally, 1.3 billion people live with a disability, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), and women are disproportionately affected. Many of these women face violence, often from those closest to them—family members, caregivers, or others on whom they depend for daily support. This reliance creates a power imbalance that increases their vulnerability to abuse and exploitation, underscoring the urgent need for visibility, advocacy, and protection of their rights.

Silent Tears addresses this issue by raising awareness and fostering dialogue. Through partnerships with institutions and by amplifying survivors’ voices, the exhibition challenges stereotypes of disability and helplessness. It highlights that these women are not only survivors but also agents of change whose empowerment is key to building a more equitable society.

By showcasing the intersection of gender, disability, and violence, Silent Tears inspires action at all levels—from policymakers to community leaders and individuals. With powerful stories and visuals, the exhibition calls for collective efforts to ensure that women with disabilities are safe, respected, and fully included in society.

  • © Still dancing – Jackie – Guatemala – Silent Tears Project
  • © Acid – Kavita Shetty – India – Silent Tears Project
  • © Rain – Roslyn – South Africa – Silent Tears Project
  • © Barrier Free-three women-West Africa-Silent Tears Project
  • © Tears of the soul – Irlanda Ayovi – Ecuador – Silent Tears Project
  • © Only skin – Claudia – South Africa – Silent Tears Project

About the exhibition

© Never Give Up_Ummul Kher_India_Silent Tears Project
For Ummul, education is the key to a fulfilled life. Because of her physical disability, her parents did not want to finance Ummul's education. She made everything possible on her own.

Silent Tears is a multimedia exhibition about violence against women with disabilities. Women from across the globe share their stories with the public. These women either experienced violence due to their disabilities or acquired a disability as a result of the violence inflicted upon them.

They have suffered from lack of access to education and employment, domestic violence, forced sterilisation, armed violence, genital mutilation, sexual abuse, and rape. In addition, their experiences with authorities, the police, and the courts are often marked by neglect or disregard for their needs and concerns.

Their journey to survival was often difficult and lonely. However, Silent Tears represents a turning point, from despair to hope, unity, and strength. By sharing their stories, these women give powerful testimony and reclaim their narratives.

Further information about the Silent Tears project can be found on the website for the exhibition. 

CBM’s demands

  • Aufgeschlagenes Buch

    Gathering facts: Systematic collection and analysis of data broken down by age, disability, gender and migration status.

  • Einzelfigur

    Justice for all: Thorough analyses of intersecting forms of discrimination are essential for breaking down barriers and addressing inequalities.

  • Megaphon

    A voice for all: The rights of girls and women with disabilities must be strengthened and promoted through genuine participation.

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