The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, runs from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) through to International Human Rights Day on 10 December.
While the campaign runs only for 16 days each year, its objectives are reinforced by a year-long programme and a national plan to combat abuse.
South Africa, and Parys, is still home to high levels of violence against women and children, despite a world-renowned Constitution and a legislative overhaul that safeguards women’s and children’s rights.
The government, business, civil society organisations, faith-based organisations and the media are all participating in the drive to increase awareness of the negative impact of violence and abuse on women and children.
The campaign aims to:
* Challenge the perpetrators of violence to change their behaviour.
* Involve men in helping to eradicate violence.
* Provide survivors with information on services and organisations that can help lessen the impact of
violence on their lives.
What you can do:
South Africans are urged to support the campaign by wearing a white ribbon –a symbol of peace- during the 16-day period to symbolise their commitment to never commit or condone violence against women or children.
Speak out against woman and child abuse.
* Encourage silent female victims to challenge abuse, and ensure that they get help.
* Report child abuse to the police immediately.
* Encourage children to report bullying behaviour to school authorities.
* Men are critical partners in the fight against the abuse of women and children. Men and boys are encouraged to talk about abuse and actively discourage abusive behaviour.
* Families must stick together to create a safe environment for women and children.
* Parents and adults can make sure that children are not exposed to inappropriate sexual and violent material.
* Volunteer some of your time and energy in support of a non-governmental organisation of community group working in your area to help abused women and children.
* Use your life skills and knowledge to help support victims of abuse.
* Donate money to organisations working to end violence against women and children.
* Seek help if you are emotionally, physically or sexually abusive to your partner and / or children.
