The Gauteng Provincial Government in partnership with the Men’s Sector on Wednesday 27 November hosted a Men’s Dialogue in Birchwood, Ekurhuleni.
The purpose of the dialogue, was to provide men from across the province with the platform to engage one another on issues that affect them, how best to address these and strengthen endeavors towards the fight against gender based violence and femicide.
The dialogue which was attended by a multitude of men from various sectors, forms part of 16 days of Activism against No Violence on women and childlren.
Speaking at the dialogue, Gauteng Premier David Makhura, stressed the importance of building a more gender equitable society to successfully address the scourge, which will require concerted efforts from individuals, government, and civil society.
It is also not enough for us as men to say ‘not in our name’, we must be at the forefront in the fight against gender based violence.
“Women have long been at the forefront in the fight against political and socio-economic oppression, but the biggest form of oppression that continues to engulf women is patriarchy.
“The recent spate of attacks on women and children, bears testament that Gender-based violence (GBV) is mainly perpetrated by men, community members and individuals who tolerate and often promote negative masculine practices, it is therefore not enough for us to say ‘not in our name’, we as men need to lead by example and be at the forefront in the fight against gender based violence,” said Makhura to loud cheers.
The provincial government continues to provide support for victims of gender based violence through their green door facilities.
Green doors provide victims with a safe place, counselling, advice on opening a case and taking action against their abusers, basic emotional support, basic care and a place to rest.
Working closely with law enforcement agencies, the provincial government continues to ensure that those that are found guilty of gender based violence are brought to book.
Source: Gauteng Province