A Powerful Noise


In Celebration of International Women’s Day..i had the pleasure of attending a sold out screening of the documentary A Powerful Noise at Pacific Place..sooo very good and soo very challenging. Just so important to recognize the power of one voice and the impact they can have on soo many people.

This acclaimed documentary takes you inside the lives of three women — Hanh, an HIV-positive widow in Vietnam; Nada, a survivor of the Bosnian war; and Jacqueline (“Madame Urbain”), who works to empower girls in Bamako, Mali — to witness their daily challenges and significant victories over poverty and oppression. More than 450 theaters across the United States participated in this historic event.

The previews rolled stark, painful statistics about the state of women and girls around the globe: illiteracy, poverty, displacement. We also saw the powerful video The Girl Effect, which demonstrates the tremendous contributions of girls in their communities and their unlimited potential as women.

The film’s producer, philanthropist and businesswoman Sheila C. Johnson, introduced the evening and reminded us that the purpose of International Women’s Day is to “recognize the accomplishments of women and reflect on the work that remains to be done.” She expressed her firm belief that by galvanizing the power of women we can start a revolution that cannot be stopped.

I was overwhelmed by the women’s stories — simultaneously heartbreaking and inspiring. Each woman has tapped her own power and used it to effect change in her community. That one person can make a difference was starkly evident. Despite the devastation of war, HIV/AIDS, poverty, and exploitation of girls, these women found hope.

Visit the site...and Find out how YOU can make a powerful noise.