IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — College of Eastern Idaho hosted its sixth annual Clothesline Project Oct. 20–22, a visual display of shirts decorated with personal messages and artwork to give a voice to survivors of violence and honor those whose lives have been affected. The event brought students, employees and community members together to raise awareness of abuse, remember those lost to violence and show support for survivors.

Held in the CEI Cafeteria, the display featured shirts bearing personal messages and artwork representing experiences with violence. Each shirt offered a way to share a story that can be difficult to put into words and served as a reminder that these experiences are part of our community.

“The Clothesline Project is a moving and visible display that gives voice to survivors of interpersonal violence and abuse,” said Julie McMurtrey, Associate Dean of Student Care. “The idea for shirts was inspired by the AIDS quilt, and the first display debuted in October 1990 in Hyannis, Massachusetts, with just 31 shirts. Each shirt tells a story. Together, they represent resilience, courage, healing, and hope. As we gather here at CEI, we do so with respect for those stories and for the individuals behind them.”

The three-day event included opportunities to view the display and create shirts on Oct. 20 and 22, along with a luncheon and program on Oct. 21. Shirt-making gave those affected by violence a way to express their experiences, honor a loved one or show support for survivors.

The colors of the shirts represented different experiences with violence and abuse:

• White: In memory of someone who died due to violence.
• Yellow: Survivors of physical assault or domestic violence.
• Purple: Those attacked because of their sexual orientation.
• Blue or green: Survivors of incest or childhood sexual abuse.
• Brown or gray: Survivors of emotional, spiritual or verbal abuse.
• Orange, pink or red: Survivors of rape or sexual assault.
• Black: Those disabled as a result of an attack or assaulted because of a disability.

Together, the shirts encouraged visitors to reflect on the impact of violence on individuals, families and the broader community.

Now in its sixth year at CEI, the Clothesline Project continues to provide a space for remembrance, expression and conversation. Through the stories on display, the event shared a message with survivors and those who may be suffering in silence: You are not alone.

View the photo gallery to see the shirts and stories shared during this year’s Clothesline Project: 2026 Clothesline Project.

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About College of Eastern Idaho
College of Eastern Idaho offers associate degrees, select bachelor’s degrees, technical certificates, and workforce training programs to help students achieve their educational and career goals. With a focus on affordability, accessibility, and student success, CEI is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to the residents of eastern Idaho—redefining what comes next. Visit cei.edu for more information.