Change begins with a loud and bold “NO” against gender and child violence
The campaign will strive to raise awareness about gender and child based violence, and challenge the perpetrators of violence to change their behaviour
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender and Child Violence is an international campaign, which began on November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and children ends on 10 December.
This year the campaign is themed “From peace in the home to peace in the world – Let’s challenge militarism and end violence against women.”
The campaign will strive to raise awareness about gender and child based violence, and challenge the perpetrators of violence to change their behaviour.
It will also encourage men to involve themselves in helping eradicate violence. And provide survivors with information on services and organisations that can help lessen the impact of violence on their lives.
Here’s what you can do during the 16 Days of Activism.
· South Africans are urged to join hands and support the campaign by wearing a white ribbon – a symbol of peace – during the 16-day period to symbolise their commitment to never commit or condone violence against women or children.
· Other ways of supporting the campaign would be to speak out against woman and child abuse
· Encourage silent female victims to challenge abuse and ensure that they get help
· Report child abuse to the police immediately
· Encourage children to report bullying behaviour to school authorities.
· Men are critical partners in the fight against the abuse of women and children. Men and boys are encouraged to talk about abuse and actively discourage abusive behaviour.
· Encourage your family to stick together to create a safe environment for women and children.
· Parents and adults can make sure that children are not exposed to sexual and violent material such as pornography.
· 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.
· Donate money to organisations working to end violence against women and children
· Seek help if you are emotionally, physically or sexually abusive to your partner and/or children
· Report illegal guns to the police -, women are more likely to die violently if there is a gun in the home.
· Join a Community Policing Forum (CPF) or Community Safety Forum (CSF) to help fight crime in your area.
