Standing together against domestic violence
In line with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence Campaign, Ithemba Victim Support Centre, held an Indaba for men at the Reiger Park Civic Centre, recently.
Challenges facing society and especially men were discussed.
The aim of the day was to raise awareness that violence against woman and children is a human rights violation.
Men were also encouraged to take all possible measures to protect both women and children from such violence, and to prevent it from happening.
Topics of discussion during the event include domestic violence, substance abuse, the Maintenance Act, parenting and other social problems.
Speaking during the event, Boksburg Magistrate’s Court senior prosecutor, Henk Strydom, revealed that the Boksburg Court is dealing with a series of shocking murders this year of women killed by their violent partners in domestic violence cases.
In some cases the abuse was reported to authorities, but that did not prevent violence escalating into abuse.
Strydom says this highlights the shortcomings when it comes to protection given to victims of domestic violence after seeking help.
He said that no social group is immune to the problem of domestic violence – it happens everywhere.
“Domestic violence is a widespread problem. It happens in every social class, whether you are a rich, poor or educated living in the suburb, township or informal settlement.”
According to Strydom, even school principals, members of parliament, pastors, ministers, and police officers apply for interdicts against their spouses as a result of abuse.
“The work to combat violence against women and children in our communities should continue throughout the year,” said Strydom.
He said that in many cases of domestic violence, the main contributing factors are alcohol and drug related.
All the speakers decried domestic violence, and mentioned that although most victims of domestic violence are women, men and children are also victims of violence.
Other speakers at the event included, ward councillor Charlie Crawford, Brandon Isaacs, local pastors, Reach members, prosecutors and others.
According to Angie Reiners, manager of Ithemba Victim Support Centre, Reiger Park is one of the areas that are most affected by violence against women and children.
She called for action to be taken against abuse.
She explained that due to cultural beliefs that promoted secrecy among women, abuse were never reported and ended up being murdered by their violent spouses.
“Today we are saying women and children should report violence to the relevant authorities such as the police,” concluded Reiners.
