Edenvale residents joined members of the Edenvale SAPS and NGOs in a demonstration against gender-based violence on November 24.
The event was to launch Edenvale SAPS’ 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign and saw the group walk 5km through town.
Edenvale SAPS held the event in partnership with Edenvale Community Policing Forum and women’s networks She’s Free She’s Beautiful and Women Who Pray.
While walking through Edenvale, community members were led by Edenvale SAPS station commander Col Sudesh Sookraj.
Many held handmade placards which read “enough is enough”, “speak up” and other slogans aimed at empowering others.
Edenvale SAPS spokesperson and head of the Social Crime Prevention Unit Sgt Jacob Mashile said the campaign aimed to create awareness around all gender-based violence.
“Community members must report any acts of violence,” said Mashile.
He said officers at Edenvale SAPS are ready and waiting to assist community members.
“It is heartwarming to see the community involved in this campaign and to be part of it myself,” said Sookraj.
He said gender-based violence affects everyone, but is deeply traumatising for the victims specifically.
“We all need to work together to bring an end to gender-based violence.
“I call upon the community to work with one another.”
Sookraj said children need to be taught from a young age to value people and treat them with dignity.
He said, in future, he hopes to hold more gender-based violence awareness events throughout the year.
Mashile said at the end of the campaign, December 10, another event will be held.
