 | Let us stand up against gender-based violence
23 November 2023 | Press Releases |
23 November 2023
Today (Thursday, 23 November 2023) we launched our 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign.
Annually from 25 November to 10 December, the world shines a light on the international fight against gender-based violence (GBV), but Drakenstein Municipality pledged our commitment to not only fight GBV for 16 days, but for 365 days a year.
At the event various social development organisations were present to share important information about the service they render to victims of GBV in Drakenstein.
At the event the Executive Mayor of Drakenstein Municipality, Alderman Conrad Poole, said that he believes creating a healthy society starts at home and that parents should set an example for their children at home.
“The foundation of good values should be instilled at home. It is here where a child should see how a man should protect and treat a woman. Our women and children are precious and we should respect and value them in our homes and in our communities.”
Mayor Poole also thanked the various welfare and social development organisations who work together with the Municipality to create awareness and to implement different programmes within our communities to make sure the message of help for GBV victims reach the most vulnerable members of society, mainly the women and children.
Motivational speaker, Charlene Elliott, shared her first-hand experience of GBV and motivated women to know their worth and stand up for themselves.
“We as women should realise that we have a voice. Your voice counts and you should make the choice to either make a change or become part of the statistics. It is not always easy, but it is time for you as a woman to be selfish and think about yourself.”
Elliott challenged the woman to make a life choice that will put their heart at ease.
If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to your nearest police station or contact:
• Badisa Wellington: 021 873 4274
• Badisa Paarl: 021 870 1697
• Paarl Thuthuzela: 021 487 7312
• Western Cape Department of Social Development, Paarl: 021 871 1682
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Issued by: Communication and Marketing, Drakenstein Municipality
