Don't look away, act against abuse

This is a call to everyone to join, act against abuse and commit to preventing Violence against Women during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children. This is an international annual event which runs from November 25 - December 10.

We urge every individual to add their voice and efforts to this worthy campaign.  Make a personal commitment to preventing violence in personal relationships, extended families, communities and nations as a whole. The rampant violence which has become so much a part of our society is also fuelling the spread of HIV and having dire economic consequences on families, communities and nations.

The regional theme for this year is "Dont look away, act against abuse! What about You? Speak out, reach out, stand out!". Organisations will hold marches, conferences, rallies, dramas, talk shows, community outreaches, video shows, media events and other activities based on the theme. The consequence of violence against women affects every member of society and yet violence against women continues, and in fact escalates.

History of the campaign

The 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children is an international campaign originating from the first Women's Global Leadership Institute in 1991. Participants chose the dates in order to link violence against women and human rights and to emphasize that such violence is a violation of human rights. This 16-day period also coincides with other significant dates including November 29, International Women Human Rights Defenders Day, December 1, World AIDS Day, and December 6, which marks the Anniversary of the Montreal Massacre.

The Campaign is part of an international strategy to end all forms of violence against women and children.

Things to do to show support

1. WEAR A WHITE RIBBON

During the 16 days of the campaign white ribbons will be used to symbolize support and to create awareness about the campaign. Individuals can make their own ribbons, corporate partners can provide their employees with ribbons – and even buildings have been adorned with huge white ribbons in past campaigns. The ribbons symbolize the commitment of the wearer to never commit or condone violence against women and children, and to speak out about violence where they see it.

Why Wear a White Ribbon?

• To show your support;
• To create awareness;
• To encourage others to take part in the campaign ;
• To show your concern and commitment to a violence free South Africa.

You can donate money to organisations working to end violence against women by making a contribution to the Foundation for Human Rights. The Foundation receives money raised during the campaign and distributes it to non-governmental organisations. There is no minimum or maximum amount set for your donation - it's up to you!

 

2. DONATE

Bank Account Details for Donations:
Bank:                Nedbank
Account No:      1497 094461
Branch Code:    149 745
Account Name:  Foundation for Human Rights
Reference:        16 Days + Donor's name
Kindly confirm with the FHR that your payment has been received by calling: Contact:            Ms Vernie Chetty Henson
Telephone:       (012) 440 1691
E-mail:              Vchetty(at)fhr.org.za

 

3. SMS

SMS the words "16 Days" to 31616 and donate R5 to organisations working to end violence against women and children - and win prizes in the process! For each SMS sent, R5 will be added to the Foundation for Human Right's fund to end violence against women. The Foundation matches the amount collected via the campaign, and distributes this money to organisations.

The SMS campaign is supported by MTN, Vodacom and Cell-C, and Leaf Wireless have generously agreed to manage the SMS process.