Discussions surrounding issues of gender-based violence (GBV) have gained prevalence on social media over the past few years. The testimonies shared on social media have snowballed, creating a platform where victims and survivors of GBV can share their stories. #MeToo was one of the driving forces behind the snowball of empowered women reclaiming their voices. Tarana Burke founded the movement in 2006 with the aim of addressing sexual assault, and seeking justice for victims and survivors. This movement has created a virtual safe space for women to come forward and be supported in their telling of events. Many South African woman have courageously stepped forward and publicly shared their GBV testimonies online.
The South African Constitution is globally praised for being progressive in advancing the rights to equality, human dignity and justice. Unfortunately, these constitutional provisions do not always translate to social justice. Public figures such as DJ Fresh and Euphonik have been accused of GBV by multiple women, however these women have since been secondarily victimised through social media by their perpetrators and rape apologists. DJ Euphonik even went as far as photoshopping a fictitious conversation where the victim begged for his forgiveness. Unfortunately, after the prosecutor had looked at the docket, the decision was made not to proceed with the case. This was based on a lack of evidence. This is a tale too often told. The evidence needed to prosecute is often obscured due to the fact that GBV is a personal and intimate crime.
TRWLA would like to commend Prime Media for dismissing them from their formal employment, and the support that was offered through the social media to the victims. Although the matter did not make it to court, attention should not deviate from this case, as it is a stellar example the cycle of sexual assault cases.
There has been a lot of social and legislative transformation with regard to GBV in South Africa, yet the long walk continues. Every story told, every abuser prosecuted, every person convinced of the gravity of the GBV epidemic in South African society is a step forward. TRWLA is proud to be a part of the changemakers: opening up an Advocacy wing to inform and empower women, hosting an annual GBV workshop available for all UP students, empowering the voice of the students in our academy and creating a strong community of and friendship between women.
TRWLA would like to applaud the victims and survivors who have contributed to the demystification of GBV and for standing up against perpetrators of GBV by shining a light on their experiences. You are seen and valued. TRWLA would also like to encourage women that has suffered under GBV to seek justice, although the prosecution rate is discouraging.
In the case of domestic violence or sexual assault, there are number of organisations that may be contacted. The SAPS emergency number 10111, National GBV helpline at 0800 150 150, POWA (People Opposing Woken Abuse) 011 642 4345 and Sonke Gender Justice at 011 339 3589.
At TRWLA, we are committed to contributing towards the achievement of social equality and the eradication of GBV. Therefore, we create safe spaces for women to share their lived experiences and to find solidarity, support and community through our annual GBV awareness events and seminars.
The South African Constitution is globally praised for being progressive in advancing the rights to equality, human dignity and justice. Unfortunately, these constitutional provisions do not always translate to social justice. Public figures such as DJ Fresh and Euphonik have been accused of GBV by multiple women, however these women have since been secondarily victimised through social media by their perpetrators and rape apologists. DJ Euphonik even went as far as photoshopping a fictitious conversation where the victim begged for his forgiveness. Unfortunately, after the prosecutor had looked at the docket, the decision was made not to proceed with the case. This was based on a lack of evidence. This is a tale too often told. The evidence needed to prosecute is often obscured due to the fact that GBV is a personal and intimate crime.
TRWLA would like to commend Prime Media for dismissing them from their formal employment, and the support that was offered through the social media to the victims. Although the matter did not make it to court, attention should not deviate from this case, as it is a stellar example the cycle of sexual assault cases.
There has been a lot of social and legislative transformation with regard to GBV in South Africa, yet the long walk continues. Every story told, every abuser prosecuted, every person convinced of the gravity of the GBV epidemic in South African society is a step forward. TRWLA is proud to be a part of the changemakers: opening up an Advocacy wing to inform and empower women, hosting an annual GBV workshop available for all UP students, empowering the voice of the students in our academy and creating a strong community of and friendship between women.
TRWLA would like to applaud the victims and survivors who have contributed to the demystification of GBV and for standing up against perpetrators of GBV by shining a light on their experiences. You are seen and valued. TRWLA would also like to encourage women that has suffered under GBV to seek justice, although the prosecution rate is discouraging.
In the case of domestic violence or sexual assault, there are number of organisations that may be contacted. The SAPS emergency number 10111, National GBV helpline at 0800 150 150, POWA (People Opposing Woken Abuse) 011 642 4345 and Sonke Gender Justice at 011 339 3589.
At TRWLA, we are committed to contributing towards the achievement of social equality and the eradication of GBV. Therefore, we create safe spaces for women to share their lived experiences and to find solidarity, support and community through our annual GBV awareness events and seminars.
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