As we approach yet another 16 days of activism against gender-based violence during what has been a very difficult year, especially for women and gender non-conforming persons, we as the Sexuality and Gender Division of the Psychological Society of South Africa express our continued commitment to raising awareness
and continuing our work to end discrimination and gender-based violence.

Despite the enormous challenges of 2020 we know that every single year is a bad year for South African women and gender non-conforming persons who bear the brunt of men’s violence against them. We need to begin to challenge the widespread, yet everyday misogyny, sexism, sexual entitlement, homophobia and transphobia if we are ever to make any inroads in ending gender-based violence. It is also essential that we build and raise consciousness about gender-based violence and how it is linked to everyday and systemic sexism, racism, misogyny, homophobia, and transphobia.

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It is with great sadness and dismay that the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA) learned of the tragic killing of young Nathaniel Julius in Eldorado Park, Johannesburg. This is yet another death at the hands of the South African Police. According to media reports, witnesses described the child, with a biscuit in hand, being quite excited about seeing the police. This characterizes the warm, affectionate and passive behavioural styles often associated with many children with Down Syndrome, and it is beyond belief how anyone can choose to open fire on such a child. We hope that there will be swift, just and fitting consequences for the perpetrator(s). PsySSA calls on government to pay greater attention to violent crime in our country and do more to ensure the safety and well-being of society’s vulnerable individuals. The disproportionate use of violence and the abuse of power by security personnel requires an urgent and considered response.

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