KHAYELITSHA – Hundreds of community members gathered today to showcase their commitment to prevent gender-based violence in an event for Prevention In Action, a social change movement that encourages community groups to take action to prevent violence against women in the Khayelitsha.

“Despite the knowledge that violence against women is a serious and widespread problem in our society, there are a great number of women and girls across the Western Cape province whom are still living under the daily threat of violence,” explains Lungiswa Memela, the Executive Director of the Western Cape Network on Violence against Women, the organiser of the event. “Violence is accepted as the norm in our homes and communities, and the negative impact it can have on the lives of women and girls will continue as a result of community inaction. Violence against women is not just a women’s issue as men have a crucial role to play in challenging this harmful gender norm. Our actions should send a loud and clear message that our society condemns and abhors violence against women.”

The Western Cape Network on Violence Against Women hosted the event in partnership its five civil society sector partners: DKT South Africa, Joy Christian Church, Rape Crisis Cape Town, Nonceba Family Counselling Centre, and Free Gender. In addition, PCI, an international NGO and co- implementing partner to the WC Network in the project to prevent violence against women, provides technical support to the Prevention In Action movement. The event was made possible through the generous support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

Memela explained the goal of the event as one of education, and to motivate individuals to action: “Most men and women understand that violence against women is wrong. However, they don’t know what to do about it and find it difficult to act and intervene to stop domestic abuse or other forms of violence against women.”

Since its founding last year, Prevention In Action has equipped over 3000 community members with the tools and knowledge to take safe, effective action in ways that are relevant, unique and acceptable to them and their community to prevent violence against women.

“The growth of the Prevention In Action movement is a significant indicator of our success in changing the attitudes and behaviors surrounding the abuse of women. As support for the movement grows and it begins to spread organically, it is essential that we educate and inspire the wider community through the sharing of our Community Champions’ action stories,” said Memela.

Community Champions are exemplary Prevention In Action members whose actions have helped change lives by successfully preventing violence. Among those recognized for their inspirational actions at today’s event were Community Champions <need names> who, in sharing their stories, echoed the Prevention In Action movement’s cry: “What can end violence against women? My action is the answer! Your action is the answer! Our action is the answer!”

For those unable to attend the event, video clips of the Community Champion’s success stories are available for viewing online at: www.Facebook.com/PreventionInAction.

If you or someone you know in your community is experiencing abuse, take action and contact the Stop Gender Violence toll-free helpline today. The helpline will give you the guidance, support, assistance you need. The National Stop Gender Violence Helpline is toll-free on 0800 150 150 and operates on a 24 hour basis.