Refugees in a Multimedia Dialogue: A Methodology that Inspires the Creation of New Narratives on Migration in an Evolving Process of Change

Abstract

AbstractBased on the project No child’s play this chapter describes how arts-based methods and, especially, (visual) storytelling can inspire the creation of new narratives on migration in a slow process of change. No child’s play is a long-term project of more than 13 years that deals with the consequences of persecution, war and flight for refugees and their families as well as the Swiss public. The project is a good example of participatory action research (PAR), as it contributes to the empowerment of and awareness among the different groups in society which participated in the project. The analysis shows that arts-based methods create an emotional access and awareness, serving as a ‘teaser’. They can move, especially young participants, to reflect and talk about personal experiences or attitudes related to origins, war, trauma, home or discrimination. Many would speak about their past in front of others for the very first time, suddenly realising that their stories matter and that it is important to deal with them. This chapter illustrates this process of change with various examples. Moreover, it analyses two prominent perspectives that shaped the narratives. One is the family and its ambivalent role as a place of refuge and (over)protection. The other is the role of religion and faith as coping strategies and cultural ties for refugee families.