Painting a Powerful Message: ESOL Learners Join Global Red Shoe Installation

In November, our 16-18 ESOL learners took part in the Red Shoe Installation project in partnership with the University of Bradford, Bradford Council, and Seagulls.

The group visited Seagulls in Leeds, a paint recycling and social mobility enterprise, to take part in painting the shoes that are now being exhibited at the University of Bradford.

The installation features red shoes as a symbol of male violence against women and girls. It began in 2009 in Mexico and is now displayed in more than 80 countries worldwide.

The project includes wooden boards exhibiting over 100 pairs of red shoes, all painted by our students. Each pair represents a woman who was killed by her partner or ex-partner within a single year in Great Britain. On average, nearly three women a week lose their lives in this way.

ESOL tutor, Neil O’Sullivan said:

“The project gave our learners a chance to look at issues facing women in the UK and see that many of the problems that women face are universal across borders and cultures. They also got a chance to see how they could help raise awareness of the violence women face. The painting shoes was very motivating as it provided a clear message that transcended any language issues.”

Our students said:

“It was good. Painting some shoes for women’s killed by man’s. Helping this charity for doing this and helping people is good.” – Jasmin Akter Julie

“We did this as a reminder to women who have been killed by men and to warn others that this is wrong.” – Ramsar Ahmed Salimi

Through creativity and collaboration, our learners have contributed to a global movement that speaks out against gender-based violence and champions the power of education in driving social change.