16 Days of Activism: Protect Our Women and Children Against Violence | Western Cape Government

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16 Days of Activism: Protect Our Women and Children Against Violence

21 November 2013
Every year, government, civil-society organisations and the business sector unites to help increase awareness of abuse and build support for victims and survivors of abuse through the Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign.
 
This year, the 16 Days of Activism Campaign continues the theme of “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence Against Women." 
 
About the 16 days of Activism
 
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence is an international movement to end gender violence that has been running since 1991.
Each year, the campaign is commemorated between 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and10 December (International Human Rights Day). 
 
This period also includes Universal Children’s Day and World AIDS Day.
 
On Saturday, 23 November 2013, Dan Plato, Western Cape Minister of Community Safety, will launch the Western Cape Government’s 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign in Bredasdorp.
 
With a focus on the role of the family, the campaign will be centre around the theme “Safety starts in your family,” and will highlight Western Cape Government services that cater to abused women and children throughout the year. 
 
What is the Importance of this Campaign?
 
The rights of women and children are fundamental human rights entrenched in and protected by our Constitution. 
 
The 16 days campaign provides the Western Cape Government, civil society, NGOs and members of the public with an opportunity to shine a light on the on-going violence against women and children and the importance of partners taking care of each other as well as informing citizens of their rights and the services available to prevent abuse and seek treatment and counselling.
 
Where Can I get Help?
 
There are a number of shelters for abused women in the Western Cape. Women in need of protection can contact a shelter directly, or ask a social worker at the nearest regional office, or your nearest police station for assistance in contacting a shelter.