The Herald truly believed there was no better opportunity than in August, since it is Women’s Month, to host an informative and educational workshop.
Although I did everything I could to pull off an event of such magnitude in just a short space of time, it simply was not possible nor practical due to lockdown regulations under Level 3, as we only moved to Level 2 in mid-August. I’m sorry ladies, I’ve failed you … slightly.
I do, however, still believe we have achieved something far greater – creating awareness of epic proportions. Never before have we covered the topic of gender-based violence in support of women and children so extensively – something I’m extremely proud of!
I am happy to announce that together with organisations, individuals, local government departments, businesses, police, lawyers, magistrates, abuse/ violence survivors, social workers and shelters we managed to publish 14 articles in the four editions of the Herald this August.
Captain Paula Terblanche of Krugersdorp’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit spoke about the increase in domestic violence cases in lockdown, women in the community spoke up about being abused, rape survivors shared their chilling stories in exclusive interviews, we provided information to victims about who to contact for help should they be in an abusive relationship, women were urged to speak out, and we listed the warning signs of an abusive partner, and more. We gave information about a spiritual way out for women who have been abused, and the Randfontein Magistrates’ Court revealed in an exclusive interview that gender-based violence is a big problem in the Randfontein community – there are more than 50 cases every week.
Hopefully, it gave someone out there hope that she must break the chains of abuse, speak up and report it.
I truly want to thank each and everyone for their contribution. We could not have done it without you. I honestly believe that we have made a difference in someone’s life.
But as September draws nearer, this should not be the end of Women’s Month. We all know this will remain a continuous battle so we have to be there for victims. There’s no such thing as ‘news overload’.
Caxton Local Media has your back, ladies! Let us know if you have a story to tell or advice to give by emailing us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za.
