ODE TO WOMEN
AS A PHOTOGRAPHIC PROTEST
The women’s strikes in my native Poland have made me reflect. Every attempt to curtail freedom that women have fought hard for over the decades touches me, hurts me, makes me angry. Abortion is only possible in Poland under strict conditions. There are LGBTI+-free zones. Women’s rights are severely limited. Women become second class citizens. I am ashamed of what is happening in my native country.
The women who have stood on the barricades in Poland have inspired and energized me. With the multimedia project Ode aan Vrouwen and as a photographer, I want to make our voice heard and draw attention to our struggle for freedom. As a symbol for all women around the world who fight for equal rights and the right to self-determination over their bodies.
My name is Ania Liesting. Together with the Dutch writer Maurice Ambaum and Celestina Stark we bring an international Ode to Women.