After weeks of turning South Africa purple in support against gender-based violence (GBV), Women For Change will roll out their G20 Women’s Shutdown on Friday, 21 November.
The NGO has also launched a petition earlier this year – which has over a million signatures – to declare the pandemic a national disaster.
HOW TO JOIN THE G20 WOMEN’S SHUTDOWN
On Friday, 21 November, all South Africans are encouraged to join the G20 Women’s Shutdown against GBV, which will take place across the country.
It comes on the eve of the G20 Summit, which is set to take place in Johannesburg this weekend.
Women For Change shared of their endevour: “Because until South Africa stops burying a woman every 2.5 hours, the G20 cannot speak of growth and progress.
“Before the G20 meets, women will silence the nation.
Here’s what you need to know about participating in the G20 Women’s Shutown…
How can I support the initiative?
Women For Change encourages the public to shut down the country by refusing to work or go to school, where possible.
The NGO has also urged South Africans NOT to spend money and withdraw from the economy for one day as part of the G20 Women’s Shutdown.
South Africans are also encouraged to turn their profile pictures purple on all their social media platforms and share news in support of the endeavour.
How can I protest?
At 12 noon, activists around South Africa will take part in a national shutdown by lying down for 15 minutes to honour the 15 women murdered every day. This is a peaceful, quiet, and non-confrontational protest.
Volunteers will facilitate nationwide meeting points. See various area-focused WhatsApp groups for more information.
What do I wear?
Activists are encouraged to wear black – or purple in support of Women For Change and the G20 Women’s Shutdown- to stand in mourning and resistance.
WOMEN FOR CHANGE GETS SUPPORT FROM NEAR AND FAR
In addition to public support, Women For Change has received endorsements from celebrities, corporate companies, non-profit organisations, and even political parties for its G20 Women’s Shutdown.
The common goal is to bring awareness to GBV and femicide in light of the G20 Summit, which takes place this weekend.
The organisation said: “We refuse to allow South Africa to present itself as a ‘stable, growing economy’ while women’s bodies are the battlefield beneath it.
“The G20 Women’s Shutdown is a direct message to the world that you cannot speak of progress while women are dying”.
