The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence and Abuse campaign kicked off on 25 November until 10 December under the overarching theme “Count Me In: Together Moving a Non-Violent South Africa Forward.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the negative impact that violence and abuse have on women and children. “Over this period government will convene a series of dialogues on violence against women and children to focus on the problem, causes and to find appropriate solutions. Through the dialogue sessions government will interact with communities who experience violence and abuse.

Campaign Objectives:

  • Challenge and alter the behaviours of perpetrators of violence.
  • Involve men in helping to eradicate violence.
  • Lessen the impact of violence by providing survivors with information on services and organisations.

What can you do?

  • Support the campaign by wearing a white ribbon during the 16-day period.
  • Participate in the various 16 Days of Activism events and activities.
  • Volunteer in support of NGOs and community groups who support abused women and children. Many organisations need assistance from the public. You can volunteer your time and make a contribution to the work of institutions. Help plant a garden at a shelter, sponsor plastic tables and chairs for kids at a clinic or join an organisation as a counsellor. Use your skills and knowledge to help the victims of abuse.
  • Speak out against woman and child abuse. Talk to friends, relatives and colleagues to take a stand against abuse of women and children. Encourage discussions between males about abuse and discouraging violent behaviours.
  • Encourage silent female victims to talk about abuse and ensure that they get help. Encourage children to report bully behaviour to school authorities.
  • Report child abuse to the police.
  • Seek help if you are emotionally, physically or sexually abusive to your partner and/or children. Call the Stop Gender Based Violence helpline (0800 150 150).
  • Try and understand how your own attitudes and actions might perpetuate sexism and violence.
  • Join a community policing forum (CPF) or community safety forum (CSF) to help fight crime in your area. For information on how to join, contact your local police station.

Where to get help:

Don’t be a victim of gender-based violence and abuse, know your rights, and break the cycle and silence. Report cases of abuse by contacting the following organisations:

Key dates to observe during 16 Days of Activism:

  • 25 November: International Day of No Violence Against Women
  • 29 November: International Women Human Rights Defenders Day
  • 1 December: World Aids Day
  • 3 December: International Day for the Disabled
  • 10 December: International Human Rights Day

Follow the conversation on social media: #CountMeIn #356Days

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