Augmented Voices: An Augmented Reality Experience Highlighting the Social Injustices of Gender-Based Violence in the Muslim South-Asian Diaspora

TL;DR

This paper presents 'Augmented Voices,' an augmented reality platform designed to amplify the voices of Muslim South Asian women affected by gender-based violence, using GIS mapping to enhance storytelling and foster social awareness.

Contribution

It introduces a novel AR application that superimposes personal narratives onto physical locations, advancing site-specific AR for social justice and empowering marginalized voices.

Findings

Prototype development of the AR platform

Enhanced visibility of GBV stories in diaspora communities

Potential to foster societal awareness and support networks

Abstract

This paper delves into the distressing prevalence of gender-based violence (GBV) and its deep-seated psychological ramifications, particularly among Muslim South Asian women living in diasporic communities. Despite the gravity of GBV, these women often face formidable barriers in voicing their experiences and accessing support. "Augmented Voices" emerges as a technological beacon, harnessing the potential of augmented reality (AR) to bridge the digital and physical realms through mobile devices, enhancing the visibility of these often-silenced voices. With its technological motivation firmly anchored in the convergence of AR and real-world interactions, "Augmented Voices" offers a digital platform where storytelling acts as a catalyst, bringing to the fore the experiences shared by these women. By superimposing their narratives onto physical locations via Geographic Information System (GIS) Mapping, the application "augments their voices" in the diaspora, providing a conduit for expression and solidarity. This project, currently at its developmental stage, aspires to elevate the stories of GBV victims to a level where their struggles are not just heard but felt, forging a powerful connection between the user and the narrative. It is designed to transcend the limitations of conventional storytelling, creating an "augmented" reality where voices that are often muted by societal constraints can resonate powerfully. The project underscores the urgent imperative to confront GBV, catalyzing societal transformation and fostering robust support networks for those in the margins. It is a pioneering example of how technology can become a formidable ally in the fight for social justice and the empowerment of the oppressed. Additionally, this paper delves into the AR workflow illustrating its relevance and contribution to the broader theme of site-specific AR for social justice.