Enduring violence and abuse is an unwanted reality for many South Africans. Violence against women and children is a human rights violation that needs to be stamped out. We can make a change by standing up and speaking out.
Every year, from November 25 to December 10, we observe 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. Activists at the first Women's Global Leadership Institute in 1991 launched the widely known campaign. The campaign focuses on raising public awareness of the damaging effects that violence and abuse have on women, children, and the social fabric of our society.
Why is this campaign important?
The rights of women and children are fundamental human rights protected by our national Constitution. Gender-based and child violence, in all its different forms, devalues human dignity and the self-worth of the abused person and must be stopped in our society. The campaign can only succeed if we stand together to safeguard our society against this cycle of abuse.
What is abuse?
Abuse is any form of harm which can include when someone is:
What's the purpose of the campaign?
The campaign aims to:
Western Cape Government initiatives
The Western Cape Department of Social Development has launched its 365 Days of No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, under the banner #ONEVOICE United against Gender-Based Violence.
The purpose of the campaign is to share the stories of survivors of gender-based violence, so that those suffering abuse may be encouraged to also use their voice, make the call, and find help.
Let’s make the Western Cape safer by:
How can I support 16 Days of Activism?
Wear a white ribbon during the 16 days. A white ribbon is a symbol of peace and symbolises your commitment to never commit or condone violence against women and children.
Other ways you can support the campaign:
Volunteer some of your time and energy in support of a non-governmental organisation or community group working in your area to help abused women and children. Use your life skills and knowledge to help support victims of abuse.
Speak out against women and child abuse.
Seek help if you’re emotionally, physically or sexually abusive to your partner or children.
Encourage and talk to friends, relatives, and colleagues to take a stand against the abuse of women and children.
Join your community policing forum (CPF): The community and local police stations are active partners in ensuring local safety and security. The goal of the CPF is to bring about effective crime prevention by launching intelligence-driven crime prevention projects in partnership with local communities. For more information on how to join, contact your local police station.
Where to go for help
You can phone the following organisations to report women and child abuse: