16 Days of Activism: A positive role men can play
Men have a role to play in ending Gender-Based Violence. Here are key things they can do to bring a positive change in their families, communities, and the world at large.
We all have a role to play in ending Gender-Based Violence.
Men, who are often perpetrators of abuse, have a bigger role to play in ensuring that the world becomes a better and safer place.
According to a report by the United Nations, '60 per cent of all female homicides are committed by an intimate partner or a family member.'
The organisation also states that 'data shows that 140 women and girls die every day at the hands of their partner or a close relative, which means one woman or girl is killed every 10 minutes.'
In South Africa, a rape is reported every 12 minutes.
Women and children can suffer the following types of abuse:
- Physical violence
- Verbal violence
- Psychological violence
- Sexual violence
- Socio-economic violence
- Domestic violence or in intimate relationships
- Harassment and sexual harassment
- Rape
- Forced Marriage
- Denial of resources, opportunities or services based on gender
- Emotional abuse
- Neglect (a form of abuse where adults who are responsible for caring for the children fail to meet their basic needs)
READ: ‘Paint the Silence’ to raise abuse awareness
As the world observes 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, Ndawo Yakho, a shelter for abused women and children in Gauteng, shares how males can offer support to victims of GBV and end the growing epidemic in the country.
- Men have been given a voice and need to use their voices to speak out against the harmful practices of GBV.
- Men can support GBV organisations by volunteering or offering financial support.
- Men can act as agents of change and use their influence among peers to drive positive change in communities.
- Men can choose to be role models and impart boys with good values. They can teach young boys about treating women with respect and dignity.
- Men can use their power to stop GBV in families, communities and the nation.
- Men must be available fathers and be actively involved in ensuring the protection of the females in their lives.
- Men must stop harmful cultural practices that perpetuate GBV.
- Men must support their kids and families financially to prevent putting their children in danger of men who might lure them with money and fancy things.
- Men can affirm their girl children and boost their self-esteem.
- Men can create a safe space for their girl children to open up about the challenges they face and some of their fears.
- Men can hold each other accountable by reporting acts of GBV.
READ: Carol Ofori chats about GBV this 16 Days of Activism
Victims of GBV can reach out to social development:
CALL NOW 0800 428 428.
(PLEASE CALL ME) *120* 7867#
Skype address – HelpmeGbv
SMS ‘help’ to 31531
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