Women in Diepkloof took a stand against GBV
Some women were victims while some knew someone who was a victim of GBV.
While South Africa celebrated Heritage Day on Thursday, September 24, a group of women and children in Diepkloof Zone 5 used the day to take a stand against women and children abuse by marching through the streets of zone 5 dressed in black and traditional accessories, holding placards with messages demanding that GBV stops now.
“One of the reasons why we decided to have this event on Heritage Day is because some cultural beliefs made people believe that women should be submissive at all times, but that is not how it should be, so we wanted to create an awareness that women have rights too if she doesn’t agree with polygamy, let her be, women also need to be respected,” said Carol Mathebula-Mngomezulu one of the organisers.
Sexual assault victims are still being blamed by some sections of society, people believe women are sexually assaulted because of what they are wearing but is this the case? We have heard of incidents where a baby in a diaper was raped and an old lady in a long dress being raped.
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“The mentality that women are at fault for wearing revealing clothes must be taken out of our society. Men must stop sexualising us and having a sense of entitlement over our bodies. Our brothers, fathers, and uncles need education and we need to educate them so that they know that a woman has the right to wear whatever she feels comfortable in.
“The reason for today’s event is mainly to send out the message to the community, to say, be it I am dressed in a short skirt, a short dress or anything revealing, you don’t have the right to assault me, this is my body and my body is my right,” she added.
It is not only in Soweto but South Africa as a whole has declared war against women and children abuse.
“Gender-Based Violence has always prevailed and we have been battling with it, but we believe that we cannot do it alone, men should also support us. Enough is Enough, this event is not for fun but is a cry for urgent intervention,” said Lerato Joseph.
Some women were victims while some knew someone who was a victim of GBV.
“I have a friend who was raped and killed and it still hurts even today, whenever I attend such events, I feel like breaking down. It is sad, recently there have been cases of children being kidnapped, clearly, it doesn’t get any better, things are getting worse. We need help,” said Phumzile Gamede.
Later on, the same day the group held a candle lighting ceremony in honour of GBV victims.
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