Journey for Justice - Tamils in Batticaloa use art to call for accountability

In Batticaloa’s Gandhi Park, an art exhibition unveiled 150 paintings that powerfully conveyed themes of loss, grief, and the relentless search for the disappeared—15 years after the Mullivaikkall genocide.

The works, stark and evocative, offered a poignant glimpse into the anguish of families who continue to seek answers about their missing loved ones. The exhibition, organized by the North-East Coordination Committee along with associations representing the families of the disappeared, was driven by the initiative of local youths who planned, curated, and staged the event. Titled "Journey for Justice," the exhibition drew nearly 500 visitors, both young and old, from across Batticaloa.

Many of the paintings vividly portrayed the sense of injustice that still lingers among the Tamil community. The images—depicting the empty chairs at dinner tables, faded photographs, and silhouettes reaching into the void—resonated deeply with the audience. Onlookers said the artwork depicted the injustice inflicted upon the Tamil people. 

The event served not only as a platform for artistic expression but also as a solemn reminder of the unresolved pain that persists in the lives of those still waiting for justice.

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