25 November marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign. As an institution that subscribes to the value of social justice, the University of the Free State (UFS) stands in support of the anti-gender-based violence campaign.
As embodied in Vision 130 – which is a vision of where the university sees itself in 2034 – social justice is one of the six immutable values of the institution. The 16 Days of Activism campaign resonates with the university’s pursuit of social justice, reduction of inequality, and commitment to practices that grant human dignity to everybody.
UFS academic, Dr Claire Westman, is one of the many voices at the UFS who stands in support of anti-GBV. “This is not a problem isolated to the South African context. According to the United Nations, violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains the most widespread and pervasive human rights violation, worldwide affecting more than an estimated one in three women, a figure that has remained largely unchanged over the past decade. The most recent global estimates showed that, on average, a woman or girl is killed by someone in her own family every 11 minutes,” she said.
More needs to be done
According to Dr Westman, it is evident that we cannot combat GBV or protect women and girls from the epidemic by relying on inefficient and frequently patriarchal justice systems. Consequently, the theme for this year’s 16 Days of Activism campaign: UNITE! Activism to eliminate violence against women and girls calls for global action to enhance awareness, increase advocacy efforts, and share information and ideas.
“While legal frameworks, effective justice systems, and serious government responses to VAWG are incredibly necessary, it is also vital that the ideologies that create the conditions in which VAWG flourishes and is often even condoned, must be addressed. For this, awareness, education, accountability, and activism are necessary,” she added.
Where to report GBV at the UFS
The Sexual Offence Response Team (SORT), which is made up of business units from all three campuses of the university, is housed in the Gender and Sexual Equality office. SORT follows a predetermined process flow when providing legal, medical, and counselling services to victims of gender-based violence, with the main goal of minimising trauma for the victim. The team is available on a 24/7 toll-free line: 0800 204 682.
Use the information above and align it with the statement below forming a research essay in detail
Identify a social movement member or leader you are interested in. Write a brief background on the social movement and the person you have picked. What is their role in the movement? Why did they join? How long have they been part of the movement etc? Draft a few key questions (between 5 and 10) you would ask this social movements participant. Lastly before the conclusion discuss your chosen social movement in detail.
Assignment length: 2 pages
References: Minimum 2 sources (1 legit internet source permitted, see referencing guide).
Title: Standing in Support of the Anti-Gender-Based Violence Campaign: An Exploration of a Social Movement Leader
Introduction
The anti-gender-based violence campaign is a crucial social movement that aims to eliminate violence against women and girls. The University of the Free State (UFS) stands in support of this campaign, aligning with its values of social justice and human dignity. Dr Claire Westman, an academic at UFS, is a key figure within this movement, advocating for awareness, education, and activism to address the root causes of gender-based violence.
Background on the Social Movement and Dr Claire Westman
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign is a global movement that runs from 25 November to 10 December each year. Dr Claire Westman, an academic at UFS, is a vocal supporter of this campaign, highlighting the pervasive nature of violence against women and girls worldwide. She emphasizes the need for global action to eliminate gender-based violence and create a society free from the ideologies that perpetuate such violence.
Dr Claire Westman's Role in the Movement
As an academic at UFS, Dr Claire Westman plays a pivotal role in advocating for social justice, reduction of inequality, and human dignity. She is actively involved in raising awareness about gender-based violence, supporting victims, and pushing for systemic changes to address the root causes of violence against women and girls.
Reasons for Joining the Movement
Dr Claire Westman's commitment to the anti-gender-based violence campaign stems from her belief in social justice and equality. She recognizes the urgent need to combat gender-based violence and create a safer environment for women and girls. Her academic background provides her with the knowledge and expertise to contribute meaningfully to the movement.
Key Questions for Dr Claire Westman
1. What inspired you to join the anti-gender-based violence campaign?
2. How do you think awareness, education, and activism can help eliminate gender-based violence?
3. What are the challenges you face as a social movement leader in advocating for gender equality?
4. How can institutions like UFS contribute to the fight against gender-based violence?
5. What strategies do you think are most effective in preventing violence against women and girls?
Conclusion
In conclusion, the anti-gender-based violence campaign is a crucial social movement that requires collective action to address the root causes of violence against women and girls. Dr Claire Westman, as a prominent figure within this movement, advocates for awareness, education, and activism to create a society free from gender-based violence. By standing in support of this campaign, we can work towards a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their gender.