THE 16 Days of Activism campaign is something The Domino Foundation has been a part of for the last eight years. The campaign is a global initiative that takes place yearly and fights against gender-based violence.

It runs from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to Human Rights Day on December 10 and incorporates World Aids Day on December 1.

Also read: Gender-based violence prevention an ongoing movement, says North Durban Victim Support Group

The foundation’s Red Light programme has been responding to the desperate need to bring hope into dark spaces.

Domino’s justice co-ordinator, Natalie Ogden, described the programme’s commitment to transforming the lives of people (in particular, women) affected by sexual exploitation.

“Lasting change cannot be achieved in isolation. Partnerships are essential as each organisation and individual brings unique strengths and expertise. This collaborative approach aligns with the goals of both the South African government and the US Embassy to combat human-trafficking and GBV,” said Ogden.

Domino has two impactful programmes tackling the effects of social injustice. The one is the Red Light programme, which provides critical rehabilitation and recovery resources for survivors of human-trafficking and women leaving the illegal sex trade. The other is the Babies’ Home programme which cares for abandoned and vulnerable infants, providing a safe, nurturing environment for children at risk.

Also read: Christmas wish list for Durban Child and Youth Care Centre

“The National Freedom Network has been a central ally, connecting organisations and resources nationwide. Hands of Hope has provided vital donor-support and mentorship. The Open Door Crisis Centre has been a steadfast partner, assisting victims of trafficking and GBV. Expose Hope courageously reaches out to the most vulnerable in some of the toughest circumstances, and A21 has assisted with human-trafficking reporting and rapid response for many years,” added Ogden.

As part of its commitment to be part of the 16 Days of Activism, Domino invites the community to purchase jewellery made by survivors of human-trafficking in its safehouse, Othandweni (Place of Love).

As Ogden noted, the annual observance lasts for a little over two weeks. What about the rest of the year?

“There will probably be another almost 2 000 women and girls raped in that period. That’s to say nothing of the instances of femicide and domestic assault against females. There are still almost another 50 weeks before the next 16 Days of Activism, during which we are sure there will be at least another 40 000 rapes,” she added.

Ogden commented that Domino is a vocal advocate for a legal approach known as the ‘Nordic model’ to combat sex-trafficking and exploitation.
For more information, contact Ogden at justice@domino.org.za.

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