Outrage over killings of women

THE Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) is outraged by the violent killings of Karabo Mokoena, Nonki Smous, Lerato “Tambai” Moloi, Popi Qwabe, Bongeka Phungula, Mananki Annah Boys, Jeannette Cindi, Sthembile Mdluli, Mavis Mabala, Priska Schalk, Nicola Pienaar, Akhona Njokana, Thapelo Ramorotong, Meisie Molefe, Stasha Arendse, Iyapha Yamile, and many other women and young girls in recent weeks.

A report released this week by Statistics SA echoes this alarming trend of abuse in our society. It states that one in five women experience physical violence in their lives, rising to one in three for the poorest households. We send our deep and heartfelt condolences to all victims’ families and friends – and all others who have lost loved ones.

Twenty-three years after the onset of democracy, women in South Africa continue to face disturbing levels of oppression, violence and injustice – be it in the streets, the workplace, in taxis or our homes.

The constitution guarantees equality and freedom for all regardless of sex, gender, or sexual orientation. However, across the country reports of murder, rape (including spousal rape and “corrective rape” of lesbians), harassment and domestic violence are worryingly prevalent.

Karabo’s killing showed us the reality of our constitutional guarantees, which remain only on paper for the vast majority of women. Nonki’s rape and murder last month, her burnt body identified only through DNA testing, showed us the brutal nature of hate crimes against the LGBTQIA community in South Africa.

These killings are horrific. They point to a society that’s been allowed to hate its women. How long will this violence against women and gender non-binary people continue?

As young women, we must know our rights to stand up against male dominance. However, learning to speak up or say “no” does little good if our voices are ignored or not respected. Most people agree that rape, abuse and murder are wrong – but everyday actions that oppress us and the belief women should defer to men don’t get much criticism. Treatment Action Campaign