16 days of activism kicks off

This past Monday, the Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation Department with City of Joburg have launched their 16 days of activism against women and children abuse at the Westbury Recreational Centre.

The programme was around primary school pupils who were from Westbury, Newclare and Everest Primary.

“We needed to start educating the young pupils about abuse as they will be growing up and being the adults in this community filled with various abuses,” said programme director Maletsatsi Nkopane.

“Don’t be afraid to report any type of abuse to authorities,” said ward councillor Susan Stewart.

A march against gender based violence was done by pupils with Johannesburg Metro Police Department and police.

The march was done in the streets of Westbury, creating awareness of gender based violence happening.

“No means no,” they sang as they marched.

Pupils were invited to a talk after the march at the centre; the talk was about different types of abuse.

“The purpose of this event was to educate, teach and create awareness relating to abuse,” said Themba Phiri.

Explaining what the Domestic Violence Act to pupils was done by Family and Marriage Society of South Africa FAMSA.

Giving pupils examples of different types of domestic violence that happens like;

· Physical abuse- is when someone hits you.

· Sexual abuse – being forced to do something sexual.

· Emotional, verbal and psychological abuse – Insults, name calling, repeated threats that cause distress, jealousy and possessiveness.

· Intimidation; includes threats made which result in fear.

· Harassment; constantly being watched and followed with repeated calls, parcels and letters.

· Stalking and damage to property.

With this year’s theme being; ‘From peace in the home to peace in the world; Lets challenge militarism and end gender based violence.’