In a powerful display of solidarity and commitment to ending gender-based violence (GBV), the Phoenix Survival Centre for abused, abandoned and destitute women hosted a placard demonstration along the busy R102 highway. This event commemorated the start of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Women and Children Campaign, running from 25 November to 10 December.
The demonstration aimed to shed light on the alarming rates of abuse and exploitation that women and children face daily. The highway demonstration was a collaborative effort that brought together organisations from various sectors, including women’s rights groups, child protection agencies, social service organisations and concerned residents. As vehicles zoomed past, the message from demonstrators was clear: “It’s time for society to end the silence and take a stand against gender-based violence in all its forms.”
Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, Caroline Govender of Phoenix Survival Centre said, “The symbolic use of the highway as a backdrop for the demonstration was deliberate. Highways often represent fast movement, progress and connection, but for many women and children suffering from abuse, they also symbolise the barriers and obstacles that impede their access to safety and justice. By taking to the highway, we were not only raising awareness but also confronting the public with the stark realities that too often go unnoticed.”
She added, “The placard demonstration was part of a broader strategy to engage the public, educate communities and spark conversations about how GBV affects every part of society. In addition to creating awareness, the demonstration highlighted the need for accountability. It is crucial that we hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. It is also essential for us to remind survivors that they are stronger than they think. We honour the resilience and courage of survivors who have faced unimaginable challenges, and we recognise that the journey to healing and recovery is not easy, and they are not alone.”
For many of the organisations involved, the 16 Days of Activism campaign was more than just a demonstration – it was a call to action for a more equitable future where women and children are no longer subjected to violence and abuse.
