Art as a Force for Social Justice and Activism

Art as a Force for Social Justice and Activism
By Mariela Shaker

Art has always been more than a form of creative expression—it is a lifeline, a bridge, and a spark for transformation. As a Syrian-American and British violinist and keynote speaker, I have witnessed the power of art to transcend borders, unite communities, and ignite change. My journey—from surviving in war-torn Aleppo to performing on some of the world's most prestigious stages—has taught me that art is not only a reflection of our shared humanity but also a profound catalyst for social justice and activism.

Music as a Lifeline: Finding Hope Amid Destruction

Music saved my life. In the devastation of war, when hope seemed impossible, my violin became my salvation. In those darkest moments, I found strength in music. A scholarship saved me from Aleppo, but long before that moment of deliverance, music had already become my refuge.

I shall never forget the young violin students I taught in Aleppo—brave souls who risked their safety just to attend class, often while bombs fell around us. Teaching violin in those conditions wasn’t just about mastering notes; it was about offering stability in a world consumed by chaos. Music wasn’t merely a comfort—it was a necessity. It gave us purpose and hope, offering a fleeting sense of normalcy amidst the turmoil surrounding us.

My Bow Bends for Peace: Art as a Healing Force

Art is more than an outlet for advocacy—it is a profound source of healing. For those affected by war, displacement, and injustice, art offers a sanctuary to process pain, reclaim identity, and find solace.

The healing power of music continues to resonate in my work today. Every time I pick up my violin, my bow bends for peace—to honor resilience and amplify the voices of those silenced by conflict. Each performance is not just a sharing of my own story but a creation of a collective space where we can reflect, heal, and hope together. Music reminds us that even in our darkest moments, beauty and light are still possible. Through this lens, I believe art is not merely expression—it is a means of survival, a path to dignity, and a call for peace.

Art as a Universal Language

The strength of art lies in its ability to build bridges where walls exist. In a world so often divided by politics, religion, and race, art speaks a universal language. Unlike words, which can be divisive or misunderstood, art reaches people on a deeply human level, inspiring empathy and connection.

Through performances and tours, I have been fortunate to connect with people from different walks of life. Whether in refugee camps, concert halls, or classrooms, the power of music breaks down barriers and unites people in a shared emotional experience. This universality is particularly impactful when addressing global challenges such as the refugee crisis, gender inequality, and climate change. Art moves people beyond statistics, offering a profound emotional connection to the lives behind these issues.

From Aleppo to the White House: Moments That Shaped My Mission

One of the most transformative moments in my career came when I stood at the White House, honored as a Champion of Change by President Obama. That recognition was not just a personal achievement—it was a testament to the power of art to ignite meaningful change.

Performing at the Kennedy Center in 2015 and again in 2022 further solidified my belief that music is far more than mere entertainment. It is a call to action, a tool for transformation. On those prestigious stages, my violin became a voice for the voiceless, a symbol of hope, and a reminder of the boundless potential within each of us when we are given the opportunity to thrive.

Highams Park Music Academy: Empowering the Next Generation

In 2020, I founded Highams Park Music Academy in London because I deeply believe in the transformative power of art, especially for young people. While art fosters creativity, it also cultivates discipline, resilience, and focus—qualities that extend beyond music and empower individuals to achieve their dreams.

The academy is a place where students learn not only to play the violin or piano but also to find their voices and build confidence. By investing in young people, I hope to pass on the lessons I’ve learned: that art has the power to change lives, even in the most challenging circumstances.

My Story, Our Story: A Call to Dream Beyond Borders

My story is not mine alone; it is also the story of every girl born into war who refused to give up her dreams. I want to inspire young people, especially girls from conflict zones, to believe in themselves—to understand that with determination and resilience, nothing is impossible.

While art may not provide food for the hungry or shelter for the displaced, it can inspire us all and bring beauty into the world. I truly believe that one day, the sound of music will rise above the sound of machine guns, and the power of art will lead us toward peace.

The Women’s Forum: Elevating Art as a Tool for Change

The Women’s Forum for the Economy & Society provides a vital platform to amplify voices and explore the intersection of art, social justice, and economic empowerment. In a world where women still face significant inequities, we must recognize art’s essential role in advocating for change.

Art is not just a tool for expression—it is a strategic asset in the fight for gender equality, human rights, and climate justice.

I urge all of us to think creatively about integrating art into our activism:

• How can we use music, visual arts, literature, and performance to elevate our causes and reach new audiences?
• How can we support artists on the front lines of social justice movements?
• How can we ensure that art remains accessible to those whose voices have been historically silenced?

A Future Vision: Harnessing Creativity for a Better World

Art, in all its forms, is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us of what is possible when we dare to dream, create, and collaborate. For me, the violin is more than just a musical instrument—it is a bridge, a beacon, and a call to action.

Through my music, I aim to share not only my story, but the stories of millions whose lives are reduced to numbers. We must remember that behind every statistic, there is a human being with dreams, aspirations, and a desire for a better future. It is this human connection that we must prioritize if we are to achieve justice, peace, and equality.

As we continue our work at the Women’s Forum, let us harness the transformative potential of art to shape a more inclusive, compassionate, and equitable world. Together, we can amplify the voices of creativity and hope, rising above the divisions of conflict and suffering.

I invite you to listen to my performance 🎻 of Gluck’s Mélodie—a musical prayer for peace, love, and a world where harmony prevails: Watch here