THE Montclair Community Police Forum, in partnership with the Montclair Spiritual Crime Prevention group, organised a women’s day at the Tray Bang Memorial Hall on August 12. The primary aim was to provide education on domestic violence for women, particularly those serving in the SAPS in Montclair and surrounding areas.

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The main purpose was to teach police officers about domestic violence and gender-based violence and how they can better assist women who come to the station, but it also served as a way to celebrate the women in blue during Women’s Month. Hazel Francis, a spokesperson for the Montclair CPF, explained that the event had three main goals, to celebrate, educate and empower.

“Female police officers are often on the frontline when victims of domestic violence and gender-based violence seek help. They deal with extremely difficult and traumatic situations and are expected to remain strong, professional and compassionate. But we sometimes forget that behind the uniform is also a woman, a mother, daughter, sister, wife, partner or friend who may face challenges of her own. We therefore wanted to create a space where our policewomen could gain valuable knowledge about the Domestic Violence Act and other legislation such as the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act and Sexual Offences and Related Matters Amendment Act while also feeling appreciated, supported and celebrated,” said Francis. 

Special speakers

Several speakers from different sectors of the criminal justice system were present. Asiya Khan, director of legal services at the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, spoke at the event, alongside advocate Omashnie Naidoo and Nombuso Mpanza who represented the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). Dr. Samantha Willan, a researcher specialising in GBV from the SA Medical Research Council (SAMRC), also shared her insights. Their presentations offered perspectives on domestic violence, the legal framework and the justice process, while also encouraging better collaboration between the SAPS and organisations that support victims.

Recognising the efforts

Francis emphasised the importance of celebrating the women in the police force, highlighting that the demands placed upon them often go unrecognised. She added that Women’s Month provided an opportunity to honour not only the officer but also the woman behind the badge. The women who protect the community, she said, also deserve to feel protected, supported, respected, and appreciated.

The Montclair CPF and Montclair SCP expressed their gratitude to police management, station commander Colonel Riëtte Kitching, the participating police stations, social crime co-ordinators, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the NPA, SAMRC, the corporate sponsor Momentum and other partners and stakeholders who contributed to the event. Francis also thanked chairperson of the CPF and spiritual crime prevention officer Pastor Desmon James for his help in organising the programme. 

Francis believes that Women’s Month should be more than just an annual event; it should serve as a yearly reminder to acknowledge the courage, resilience and contributions of women throughout the year.

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