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Author(s): Philomena Obu.

Volume/Issue: Volume 9, Issue 4 (2026)

Page No: 41-78

Journal: African Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities Research (AJSSHR)

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Abstract:

This article examines textile design as a medium of social advocacy, addressing critical issues affecting children such as depression, sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and teenage pregnancy. Textile art is presented as a communicative platform where narratives of trauma, resilience, and hope are visually and symbolically expressed. By embedding emotions and lived experiences into fabric, textiles become tools for awareness, education, and dialogue. Chosen for their everyday presence, fabrics act as silent communicators when worn, they provoke consciousness and public engagement with sensitive concerns. The study draws on reflective documentation of the creative process, supported by secondary literature, to demonstrate how textile design transforms clothing into vehicles for social change. Authoritative reports from international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and UNICEF informed the conceptual and contextual framework of the designs. The world health organization (WHO) facilitated the data collection as they provides guidance for evidence based child maltreatment prevention; provides evidence based guidance to help frontline healthcare providers, recognize children who have suffered from violence and neglect and provide evidence based first line support. ILO informed the design as it has a zero tolerance stance towards any form of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) and is strongly committed to upholding the highest ethical values at all times. UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfil their potential, from early childhood through adolescence which dictated the target of audience. The resulting textile works were exhibited in educational and community settings, where audiences engaged with the themes through its tactile nature, colour symbolism, pattern, and texture. Viewer responses indicated that the visual narratives encouraged reflection, empathy, and open discussion about sensitive social concerns affecting children and adolescents. Findings suggest that textile design is an effective medium for communicating complex social realities, fostering emotional connection, and supporting informal education and advocacy initiatives. The study concludes that textile art serves as a participatory tool for social change and recommends its integration into school curricula, community outre

Keywords:

textile design; sexual harassment; child depression; sexual abuse; captivity; teenage pregnancy; social advocacy.

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