Acts of whistleblowing aimed at calling attention to alleged wrongdoing or misconduct continue to make headlines around the world, but despite the introduction of policies meant to protect them, the efforts of whistle-blowers in Australia are increasingly being undermined by gag orders, policing, and other forms of control — by efforts to silence those who have spoken out, and to discourage anyone who might think of doing so. Meanwhile, the possible consequences for someone who chooses to blow the whistle remain the same: if you are not simply ignored, you face the real threat of legal proceedings and imprisonment.
Agonistes, by Hoda Afshar, is based on the experiences of several men and women —former employees in the areas of immigration, youth detention, disability care, and other Australian government agencies— who chose to speak out, and who are now living with the consequences. They describe the personal and professional ruin, the breakdown of friendships and family relationships, and the physical and mental anguish that followed their decision to call out alleged abuses, and the reasons that led them to do so, despite knowing their possible fate. They explain that if they could go back, they would do it all again.
The work is composed of photogrammetric portraits and interviews where they share their experience. While their individual stories differ, the shared struggle of these men and women exposes the same agonizing truth: how the essence of tragedy emerges from the choice between responsibility and obligation — between morality and the law.
Agonistes was commissioned by PHOTO International Festival of Photography in Melbourne in 2021.