Human Rights Week: Facing the Future

In Uganda, gender violence is a serious, hidden problem as a means of solving domestic disputes, jealousy feuds, business, and political differences. Knives, guns, and physical attacks are the most commonly used weapons, but the most horrific weapon is acid. A hired killer purchases acid for less than {dollar}1.00 and will throw a bottle of acid onto a person’s face and body with the intent of disfiguring and disabling the victim forever. Reported acid attack victims in Uganda number at around five hundred, though thousands are undocumented and remain hidden in their villages outside of public view. Twelve acid attack survivors refused to remain hidden and isolated. Through the encouragement of Hanifa and Ritah, both acid attack survivors, they all met for the first time on June 25, 2014, in a small village in Uganda. This was the first time they removed their scarves, veils, and masks in public and shared their stories of survival and hopes for the future. The film "Facing the Future" captured this momentous day as each survivor bravely faced the camera to tell their story. They talked about their former lives, recalled their brutal attacks, and how they survived the painful journey back to recovery. They also spoke about the reasons behind such brutal attacks. Most of all, the film captures the survivors’ dreams and hopes for their future, and shows their strength and desire to regain their dignity and human rights.