Hundreds of women who took part in the nationwide anti–gender-based violence (GBV) shutdown in Johannesburg, South Africa SA), on Friday say the crisis must be placed at the top of the G20 Leaders’ Summit agenda.
Participants, including members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex and Asexual or Aromantic community, gathered at Constitution Hill dressed in black to honour women who have been killed in gender-based attacks. They lay still on the ground for 15 minutes in a symbolic act of grief, exhaustion and peaceful protest.
Many told SABC News that government action remains far too slow and that the G20 should use its collective influence to push for stronger protections for women and girls.
One participant said; “Recognise women and the role they play in sustaining our economy, and how they are being sidelined, killed and discarded. That is why this is so important to us, GBV is not just a SA issue; it is a global issue, especially where there is poverty and collapse. I am overwhelmed that the country could come together like this, celebrate survivors and take a proactive approach to ending GBV.”
–ChannelAfrica–
