WATCH: Brackendowns CPF and SAPS walk to fight violence against women
Community members unite in Brackendowns to raise awareness and support survivors of GBV.
The Brackendowns CPF and SAPS hosted a community walk against GBV on November 21.
The walk started and ended at the Brackendowns SAPS on Letaba Street.
Families, children and community members walked 3km to raise awareness and show support for survivors of abuse.
@albertonrecord The Brackendowns CPF and SAPS hosted a community walk against GBV on November 21. The walk started and ended at the Brackendowns SAPS on Letaba Street. Families, children and community members walked 3km to raise awareness and show support for survivors of abuse. #GBVF #WomenShutdown ♬ original sound – Alberton Record
CPF highlights the need for action
Roxy Scholtz of the Brackendowns CPF, also a survivor of GBV, said the many domestic violence calls attended by the CPF and later handed to the SAPS inspired the walk.
She said GBV was an issue that touched the team and moved them to act.
Scholtz said community involvement is essential in fighting abuse.
“When communities unite they create a safer environment, and reporting incidents to the police is vital.”
She added that people must “Get up and get out” when facing abuse.
She said the CPF wanted the event to be family-friendly because GBV affects people of all ages, colours and races.
“Including families and educating children helps build a culture of empathy and respect. The CPF hopes the walk sparks conversation, raises awareness and motivates action.”
Scholtz also confirmed that the CPF continues to run workshops, support groups and partnerships with local organisations.
The Victim Support Unit volunteer team also provide confidential trauma assistance at no cost.
She encouraged residents to continue supporting the cause by reporting incidents, volunteering and spreading awareness.
A message of strength and healing
The event also featured a message titled We are more than labels, written by Scholtz, a survivor of sexual abuse.
The message encouraged participants to reclaim their worth and reminded them that the labels placed on them do not define who they are.
Scholtz wrote that survivors can choose to say “I am a survivor of abuse” instead of “I am a victim”.
SAPS ensures safety and encourages reporting
Constable Bizwapi of the Brackendowns SAPS said the police were present to ensure the safety of those walking and ensure traffic flowed smoothly.
She said GBV is a national priority and stressed that it is vital for the community to know the SAPS supports victims.
She encouraged people not to be afraid or embarrassed to report cases.
“Victims sometimes come to the police station for help, but later request that their partners only be warned, not arrested. In some cases, they open cases and later withdraw them. We encourage victims to follow through with reporting so that the SAPS can fully assist.”
She said the Brackendowns SAPS has a victim-friendly room, where victims can speak comfortably, and that social workers are available when needed.
She encouraged residents to report any concerns directly to the police station.
