SAAWG Journal 20022002-EDITORIAL: It has been said that “What is honoured in a country will be cultivated there”. Looking at the crime statistics for our country, I wonder what outsiders must think of us. It would appear as if our value system is seriously impaired. This holds true particularly when we consider the appalling figures related to violence against women, children and the elderly in South Africa. Why should those who are among the most vulnerable in our society, be the ones targeted? What has so hardened the hearts of some of our people that they place no value on life? Where is the respect that was traditionally shown to our senior citizens and to our women? What has blighted the feeling of protectiveness towards our children?
Every day we hear, see or read about such abuse. Cape Talk radio informs the public of a benefit concert for a female singer, once raped, now an Aids sufferer; Carte Blanche features a rapist who admits that he had raped many with no feelings of guilt for, at that stage, he had felt it was his right; or the same team shows shocking visuals, captured by hidden camera, of harsh treatment meted out to geriatics; at stop streets children, because they have been abandoned or have been forced to do so, beg for money or food; news bulletins tell of UK investigators visiting our country for assistance with a suspected Muti killing – not something to brag about!
Certainly a great deal of research is being undertaken to find explanations for the sad condition of our land; and, hopefully, to find ways to alleviate the suffering. Then, too, there are those among us who have sustained values that are “fine, honourable and of good report”, and would never abuse others. And, there are those concerned citizens who do strike out – positively - and hold out lifelines. Even the acronyms selected for centres providing help have a message e.g. HEAL (for the elderly). PATCH (for children) brings to mind the slogan which should again be prominently displayed - Children should be seen and not hurt! There has been some improvement in the handling of rape victims by the authorities but it appears as if even more needs to be done.
Some men have taken a stand. A MEN’S MARCH against violence towards women and children took place in Cape Town, another in Johannesburg; Soccer players in the Western Cape ran on to the field wearing white ribbons as their mark of protest. A government theme for 2001 was “Blowing the Whistle on Violence against Women: Zero Tolerance.” We, as women, must make our statement too. In our homes we must foster a nurturing climate, and in our land, we must restore a culture of caring and kindness.If all South Africans do not put an end to the abuse, then, with Alan Paton, we will have to say: CRY THE BELOVED COUNTRY.
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