JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – After the article appeared in the Comaro CHRONICLE/ Southern COURIER, A hundred rand for straight sex, page 3, February 4, readers have been sending in their comments and thoughts.
Justice Mogotlane, Chairperson of Moffatview Sector 1 Crime Forum (in his private capacity), says: “I just want to commend you for taking an interest in some of the national social ills. I do regard the media as ‘The mirror through which we can see our own activities’. Let’s hope the article will not only spark the debate about prostitution but also solicit support from interested stake holders and role players to innovate mechanisms for possible solutions. We sometimes patrol with the police and some of the things we see are heart-breaking. There are programmes in place trying to assist these people, but there is monumental work to be done. Some of them are as young as 13 I believe. I hope you guys one day join us when we do the patrol, subject to your policy and procedure. Keep up the good work.”
“The story of Melissa is very painful, and it shows that many of our children out there are just victims of circumstances and a country struck with poverty and no job opportunities! As a community and responsible citizens I think we can help such children and help them seek rehabilitation and counselling. Melissa can be helped to enrol in any of the finishing schools for grade 12! Who knows, maybe in six years’ time we can see Melissa graduating in one of our universities! To our children out there, please do not engage in activities you yourselves are ashamed of. Come forward, there is always an adult who may lend a helping hand. She/he may not be a rich person, but somebody willing to be a mentor,” said a concerned citizen and mother.
“I won’t sell my body for sex. I am 29 years old with no job as I am ill. I sell popcorn to make a living.”
“I proudly say I don’t patronise sex workers. I am a 27-year-old boy who upholds integrity and uprightness. I came to realise that these girls indulge in prostitution for so many reasons. It’s appalling to see a man old enough to father these girls patronising them. I boldly confronted one girl and told her I don’t judge what she does, but that that she will end up getting attracted to the wrong people. She told me she smokes drugs and she stays with a Nigerian,” said Mike.
“It’s not a good thing, but sometimes parents put their children in this situation. I don’t blame her, but she should quit and go back to school and try and get her matric.”
“I read the story and it’s so sad. How can we help her out of this?”
“My own view, I think it is part of their life and a way they can survive. I really wish something could be done about it. The painful part is the government and the public know about it and do nothing.”
“Your article in the newspaper touched me and this issue raises concern, especially if you are parenting girls. I always pray that my three daughters stay safe, but it is sickening when you see fathers on the street taking advantage of someone else’s situation. As a society, we should be advising and motivating young women. The whole thing boils down to an issue of conscience and morals from young and older men, who partake with these young women on the street.”
“I thank you very much for bringing this to the attention of the community and I hope it will raise discussion among families and try to change some mindsets.”
Thank you for all your comments and concerns – Julie Maule, News Editor, Comaro CHRONICLE.
