10 Ways To Play Your Part In The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence
10 Ways To Play Your Part In The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence. Today (25th November) marks the start of 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence. This is any form of violence primarily experienced by someone of a specific gender. It is also often called violence against women, as it is mainly women and girls who experience it.
It goes without saying that South African women, live in fear, as femicide cases are constantly on the rise. Everyday we wake up to the sad news of rape, murder, domestic violence, body shamming, and mostly women are on the receiving end. However, this issue doesn’t just affect women only. It has a big impact on children who see or experience it. It impacts their mental health and can put them in physical danger too. Violence against women is the leading cause of homelessness for women and children.
We all can take a part in trying to fight this pandemic. Even if you are not directly affected, you can still help helpless women and children out there. You can save lives and make the vulnerable feel free. Here is how;
- Reject and report abusers. Act and don’t look away!
- Do not protect abusers, rather report them!
- Sign the Pledge Against Gender-Based Violence. Do not engage in abusive activities and become an abuser.
- Challenge and denounce cultural practices that perpetuate gender inequalities
- Be sensitive and supportive to GBV victims. Share helpful information and support causes near you.
- Seek personal help to change harmful behaviors such as alcohol and substance abuse
- Teach children values of gender equality
- Protect children from exposure to violence and harmful content on internet and social media, including pornography, sexual solicitation
- Develop policies that prevent and deal with gender based violence in your sector, workplace and communities.
- Organize targeted community outreach and dialogues on solution towards a gender equal society.
