Motlanthe to lead men’s rally against gender violence
JOBURG - Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe will lead a national men's rally against gender-based violence, rape, and child abuse.
Motlanthe, together with the South African National Aids Council men’s sector, will lead the rally on 24 August.
Themed ‘Not In My Name’, the rally is spearheaded by the Aids Council, Brothers for Life, the Department of Women, Children and Persons with Disabilities, and supported by various NGOs, civil society organisations, business and government.
It calls upon all South African men to stand up and take a pledge declaring that no rape, gender-based violence, child abuse, homophobia, and alcohol and drug abuse will happen under their watch.
The rally follows an urgent men’s dialogue held in April this year, called for by Motlanthe.
Chairperson of the Aids Council, Reverend Bafana Khumalo said, “The national men’s rally will be the first of its kind; to mobilise men from all walks of life to come together in proclaiming their stance against all kinds of violence plaguing the country, as well as issues of family and community health and welfare by completely rejecting gender inequalities.” About 40 000 men are expected to attend the rally at the Johannesburg Stadium.
“As the main perpetrators of violence we are encouraging men to step up and play a role in creating safer and healthier homes and communities for women and children,” Khumalo said. He added although the majority of men do not commit acts of abuse, most remain silent on this issue.
On the day, the men will be addressed by Motlanthe and the council representatives. Other issues to be addressed on the day include encouraging men to take up the challenge of testing regularly for HIV and committing to protecting themselves and their loved ones from HIV infection, as well as changing negative social norms perpetuated in the name of culture and religion.
Entertainment earmarked for the day will include performances from Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, Elvis Blue, Dj Sbu, Collide Crew, and Professor, as well as other developmental artists. Khumalo said buses and trains and pick-up points have been organised for the day as well as ample parking for men who wish to attend from across the country.
Details: www.brothersforlife.org
