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GEORGE NEWS & VIDEO - George Municipality, municipal officials and Council say NO to gender-based violence and fully support the 16 Days of Activism For No Violence Against Women and Children.
George Mayor Leon van Wyk said for too long, the responsibility in combatting violence against women and children has been shifted onto law enforcement agencies and the criminal justice system, and the public has become onlookers witnessing the escalation of this type of violence.
"We cannot afford to keep on turning a blind eye. We all need to amplify the voices of women and children and shine the light on this shadow pandemic.
"We all have to become activists against gender-based violence in our homes, communities, workplaces and places of recreation. My call on you today is to become an active participant in this fight to eradicate gender-based violence," Van Wyk said.
He added that it is time for men to take up the banner and become the mouthpieces, the advocates and champions of this campaign and to put in place an action plan to eradicate all forms of violence.
Wear a white ribbon
"In wearing your white ribbon as a symbol of peace, we also show our commitment to never commit or condone any gender-based violence. Let it serve as a constant reminder that the sustainable solution to this societal problem lies within every one of us. Let us wear black for three days, starting on Thursday 26 November, for those who have succumbed to Covid-19, but also those who were killed as a result of gender-based violence during this time.
"Unmute yourself and speak out and speak up against any form of violence."
The 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
Advocate Gerda Marx of the National Prosecuting Authority, on behalf of the local organising committee for gender-based violence in George, explains the Sexual Offences and Related Matters Amendment Act of 2007, while Angelique Vesazie explains how the Thutuzela Care Centre works with victims of sexual offences.
Listen to voice clips relating to the 16 Days of Activism:
Watch a video below:
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