Borås Participates in National Photo Exhibition for Equal Rights

This October, Borås joins a national manifestation for equal rights with a unique outdoor photo exhibition. The initiative, tied to the premiere of Glada Hudik’s film “It Could Have Been Us”, features portraits of nine local individuals with intellectual disabilities.

A Nationwide Movement

Borås is one of twelve Swedish cities participating in this powerful exhibition. Renowned photographer Karl Nordlund has captured portraits of nine local individuals in each city, creating a nationwide showcase of local stars. In Borås, these striking images are displayed on a facade at the intersection of Allégatan and Lilla Brogatan.

Local Collaboration for a Greater Cause

The project in Borås is supported by Borås City, Borås TME, and several local companies and organizations. Their collective effort aims to spread the message of equality throughout the city.

“We are proud that Borås is one of the twelve cities that is part of the national manifestation and contributes to keeping the collective memory alive. It is a history that must never be forgotten and events that have taken place locally that we never want to be repeated. Borås is a city for everyone to live and work in. It is a place for everyone to visit. No matter who you are,” says Linda Sjöstrand, center manager of Borås City.

Remembering a Dark Chapter

The exhibition and film shed light on a somber period in Swedish history. Between 1920 and 1940, there were 155 institutions for people with disabilities in Sweden, where unethical experiments were conducted. The project aims to ensure these events are never forgotten or repeated.

The Film: “It Could Have Been Us”

Premiering on October 11, the film takes viewers on a journey through Swedish history, from the inauguration of the Institute for Racial Biology in 1922 to the experiments at Vipeholm Hospital. While addressing dark historical events, the film ultimately conveys a message of hope and faith in the future.

Local Stars of Borås

The Borås exhibition features portraits of Andreas Good, Elisabeth Broberg, Gabriel Dover, Gustav Berg, Helena Dahl, Joakim Sterner, Karoline Andersson, Linnea Dahlberg, and Victor Thörnqvist.

This powerful initiative encourages Borås residents to contribute to a more inclusive city, manifesting a brighter future for all.

For more information, visit borascity.se/glada-hudik-det-kunde-varit-vi

Source: Borås TME Press Release