'The Clothesline Project' one of prevention, healing

Clothes are being used to make a political statement in Dunn Meadow this week. T-shirts, with words like \"I am not a victim, I am a survivor,\" are being used to honor victims of domestic violence.\nThe Clothesline Project is a collection of shirts and other clothing, donated by members of the community, that are decorated with stories of hope and sadness.\nThe display was set up Monday. It will remain open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Thursday.\n\"How can you be human and not be against violence?\" asked junior Emily Roth.\nThe shirts are color coded to show what type of act is being discussed. \nSenior Jimmanee Spears said the purpose of the event is \"so (victims) can air out their dirty laundry.\"\nThis is accomplished by having people come by to share their experiences through words and artwork on the fronts of shirts, Spears said.\nMaking a T-shirt is free and open to anyone who wants to participate, although artists will not keep the shirts -- they will be displayed at the City of Bloomington's Showers Building, 401 N. Morton St.\nFreshman James Bourke stopped at a table to check out the exhibit on his way to class.\n\"I see this as an expression of resilience and solidarity,\"said Bourke. \"It shows a network of support.\"\nNot only is the project a way to address issues concerning violence, but it also acts as a precursor to Take Back The Night.\nTake Back the Night events include a candle light vigil Wednesday and a rally and march Thursday.\nThe Clothesline Project is put on by a variety of campus and Bloomington organizations. \nThe shirts that are being made for The Clothesline Project should not be confused with Take Back the Night shirts, which can be purchased, organizers said.\nThe proceeds from those shirts benefit the Middle Way House.