Women employees from Bertha Gxowa Hospital took a stand against gender-based violence on Wednesday.
The women stood in solidarity with one another and pledged to stand together to help end abuse.
“Gender-based violence shall stop this month of August, Women’s Month, and we shall continue from here,” said Sr Paula Phochoko, from the hospital’s Care Centre.
The march was organised by the hospital’s Women’s Forum, and chairperson of the forum Thando Nyembe told the GCN it was very successful and went a long way in encouraging women to say no to gender-based violence.
The march was based on the Total Shutdown marches against gender-based violence which have taken place nationwide.
Sr Paula explained various types of abuse to the assembled employees and said that in society there are things that women are expected to do.
“People tell women they should behave in certain ways, for example, don’t show cleavage or raise your voice to your husband,” she said.
“And even if you comply with these so-called ‘rules’ you can still be abused.”
She added that many women are affected by or know someone who is affected by gender-based violence.
She stressed the importance of getting assistance quickly, especially in the case of rape and physical assault, as within 72 hours survivors will be able to receive physical help for certain things.
“If you come to the hospital’s Care Centre within this timeframe you can receive medication against HIV, an unwanted pregnancy, hepatitis B and certain other STIs,” Sr Paula said.
There are also social workers available to counsel survivors.
The women were urged to help bring an end to gender-based violence by reporting incidents.
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