THE 16 Days of Activism Campaign is held from 25 November to 10 December each year to oppose violence against women and children.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the negative impact that violence and abuse have on women and children and to rid society of abuse permanently.
Kasthuri Naidoo, known as Kas, a social worker at Ethelbert Child and Youth Care Centre in Malvern, believes there should be a daily consciousness and awareness of abuse.
Also read: The home inspired by a boy turns 110
“The 16 days are a great opportunity to educate but it is also important for people to report abuse as it is the key to stopping it,” she said.
Kas said that previously, abuse stayed in the family and it was something only a few people knew about and kept it a secret out of fear and lack of knowledge.
“Now things have changed, women are more empowered, they now have jobs which makes them less vulnerable to men,” she said.
She highlighted that men are also abused but feels they would be stigmatised if they report it.
“People normalise abuse and the element of self blame also contributes to many women staying in abusive relationships,” she added.
Parliament has passed laws to protect and support the rights of individuals against abuse, The Domestic Violence Act of 1998, The Children’s Act of 2005, The Maintenance Act of 1998, The Promotion of Equity and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act of 2000 and The Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters Act) Amendment Act of 2007.
During the 16 days there are key dates to observe and support through awareness and education: 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 and 10 December, International Human Rights Day.
Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5409.
