The campaign’s 2014 slogan is “Count Me In: Together moving a non-violent South Africa forward”, and its objectives are reinforced by a year-long programme and a national plan to combat abuse of all forms.
“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,” says Chantal Cronje, legal adviser from Legal and Tax.
Legal and Tax identifies ways that everyone can get involved in the fight against women and child abuse:
- Speak out against and report woman and child abuse. Encourage silent female victims to challenge abuse, and ensure that they get help.
- 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 sexual and violent material such as pornography.
- Volunteer some of your time and energy in support of a non-governmental organisation or community group working in your area to help abused women and children. Use your life skills and knowledge to help support victims of abuse.
- Engage in online dialogues such as the Cyber Dialogues organised by Gender Links, which provides a platform to share issues and experiences and offer solutions, with experts participating in the online chats.
- Get connected with important contacts and information published on Women’s Net.
- Seek help if you are emotionally, physically or sexually abusive to your partner and/or children.
- Report illegal guns to the police. According to the International Action Network on Small Arms Women’s Network, women are three times more likely to die violently if there is a gun in the home.
For more information contact Legal and Tax on 0860 587 587; www.legalandtax.co.za; email info@legalandtax.co.za or call the Stop Gender Based Violence helpline on 0800 150 150
