The United Nations marked the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence from November 25 to December 10, 2021. We at Cape {town} Etc will be using our platform to raise awareness over this period.
“Gender-based violence and femicide is not a secondary priority. It is not a women’s issue. Gender-based violence is overwhelmingly and unequivocally a human rights issue.” – President Cyril Ramaphosa.
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Day 10: Heart-wrenching gender-based violence awareness films in South Africa
Today marks day 10 of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, and it goes without saying South Africa is one of the most dangerous countries for both women and children.
National Police Minister Bheki Cele, released the latest crime statistics between July and September 2021. Over 9 500 gender-based violence cases were reported, and 13 000 cases of domestic violence.
During the quarter, 897 women were murdered, 64 more than in the quarter from the previous year – an increase of 7.7%. Sexual offence cases increased by 4.7%, with 9 556 rapes between July and September up 7.1% from the previous year’s second quarter – 8 922.
While some people show their support for this important movement through taking to the streets with placards and a spirit of fire, others have taken to films to display the harsh reality of gender-based violence.
One such example is the short film produced by filmmaker Anant Singh and starring Leleti Khumalo. This two minute clip explores the lives of several women who have been victims of GBV, and find themselves living on the trenches of society. It also pays tribute to the strength and resilience of the women of Africa.
Watch it here:
Another influential film is Alison, a deeply personal and emotional story of triumph and survival about rape survivor Alison Botha. This film directed by Pretoria-born Uga Carlini and released in 2016.
It’s been dubbed a poetic and insightful exploration of trauma and overcoming, exploring the life of Botha, who was raped then stabbed more than 60 times and left for dead. She then finds the will to survive and turns trauma into triumph.
Watch the trailer here:
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and his wife, Rachel, are executive producers of the powerful film, We Are Dying Here, aka #WeAreDyingHere. Based on a Siphokazi Jonas stage piece, this film is a reflection of violence, harassment, abuse, rape and femicide in South Africa.
Watch the trailer here:
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Gender based violence resources South Africa:
- Rape Crisis Cape Town Hotline: 021 447 9762
- South African GBV Hotline: 0800 428 428
- Tears Foundation: 010 590 5920 / www.tears.co.za / [email protected]
- Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555 / www.childline.org.za / [email protected]
- People Opposed to Woman Abuse: 011 642 4345 / www.powa.co.za / [email protected]
- Community Intervention Centre Helpline: 082 821 3447
- Free Legal Advice on WhatsApp (LawForAll): 063 603 3759
- Stop Domestic Violence Helpline (Lifeline): 0800 150 150
- Suicide Helpline: 0800 567 567
- SAPS: 10111
- National Counselling Line: 0861 322 322
- Legal Aid: 0800 110 110
Useful websites:
Also read:
Day 9: Holding the government accountable when it comes to GBV
Picture: Supplied