Johannesburg - The Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities on Thursday launched its 365 Days of Activism campaign in partnership with Crime Line.
A national rollout of initiatives was proposed as part of extending the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign.
Non-profit organisations (NPOs), government departments, public servants and members of the public signed a pledge wall in support of the campaign.
Speaking at the presentation, the Minister in the Presidency Responsible for Women, Susan Shabangu, said it was time to get serious.
“This campaign comes at a critical time when we are challenged by a violent society. The abuse of women is a problem that knows no colour, no wealth. It is a monster that is eating the moral fibre of society. And we need to take forward the campaign for 365 days. The abuse happens every second, not only during the 16 days.”
Shabangu appealed to all sectors of society to break the silence and speak out against abuse, adding: “Let’s not be judgmental – by being so, people are less likely to come forward. Let’s reach out to the perpetrators.”
An online clock was unveiled as part of the rollout, and a concrete plan of action is expected next month.
Stakeholders plan to extend the programme to neighbouring countries.
Lesotho Minister for Gender, Youth and Sports Thesele Maseribane offered a message of support.
He said the Lesotho motto “Peace in a country begins at home” was the beginning of change.
“Gender-based violence is rooted in our culture and we need to eliminate it. We need to guide policy and legislative reforms to implement the 365 days campaign,” Maseribane said.
Yusuf Abramjee, head of Crime Line, said they would pressure the Department of Justice to do its part.
“The 16 Days of Activism has come to a close. It was informative, reflective, and as much as we say it is good, it is not good enough,” said Abramjee.
“A national dialogue is what is needed, and the government needs to listen to the people. We have a constitution and it is a fundamental cornerstone of this initiative.
“We need to teach our children that life is sacred. We will keep this programme alive for the full 365 days by going to rural and urban areas,” said Abramjee.
He said society should use all available platforms, such as churches and schools, to teach children that life was sacred.
“We need to commit. Society must not look away, but also reach out to the perpetrators. Part of our responsibility is to understand what causes people to be so bitter and angry.”
Before signing the pledge wall, three former Miss South Africas added messages of support.
NPOs such as Matla A Bana, crime-fighting organisations and the Film and Publications Board came forward to sign the pledge.
LeadSA also supports the initiative. If you want to get involved, use the social media tag #365daysofactivism.
The Star