Women for Change: “Green profile” Campaigns Dilute the GBV Agenda

(The Post News) – GBV advocacy group, Women for Change, condemned efforts to deviate the intended shutdown with “Justice for Men” campaigns.

The backlash encompasses a surge of green profile pictures, in contradictory to the trending purple ones.

Some men have used the platform to raise their voices, however, the group cautions that this may compromise the movement’s focus.

Spokesperson, Cameron Kasambala explained: “We are aware of purple profile picture, and the stories coming in numbers.” That is visible declaration of I matter, I exist and I refuse to be silenced.”

“This movement has created a safe and believable space for many survivors. Not everyone can confront the streets or step away from work, but digital activism has clarified its strength.”

“it is real and powerful and it is reshaping the narrative in realistic time.”

South African females, led by Women for Change plan to impose a national shutdown on the 21st of November. The shutdown comes a day before the G20 Leader’s Summit at Johannesburg’s Nasrec Expo Center.

Protesters demand that gender-based-violence (GBV) and femicide be declared a national disaster.

Kasambala stated: “South Africa positions itself as a secure and stable economy. However, stability is a myth in a nation where 25 women lose their lives on a daily basis.”

“Our femicide rates are six times higher than global average. Its appalling that we are known as the rape capital of the world.”

She added that efforts to derail this dialogue weaken the movement and divert attention away from those deserving of it.

She further emphasized that the shutdown is not only a symbol, but a strategic act of resistance. It demands systematic change, accountability and protection.

In conclusion, Kasambala said: By withdrawing their visibility and labor, women and queer individuals reveal the nation’s dependence on them. Their suffering becomes and elephant in the room and difficult to ignore.”

Petition to Declare GBV a National Disaster

The color purple is currently trending on every social network. It is a color symbolizing strength, justice and remembrance. Continuously honoring the memories of fellow sisters, daughters and mothers whose lives have been shortened by supposed loved ones.

The message behind the purple profile pictures is a universal and simple one: one day, one message, one voice. Without women, the functionality of South Africa comes to a halt.

The movement urges people, nationwide, to withdraw power, unite and demand the demise of GBV and femicide in South Africa.

Since last week’s announcement, landmarks like Johannesburg’s Mall of Africa and others have been illuminated in purple to show support.

Women for Change’s spokeperson, Merlize Jogiat says this is a demand for the government to declare GBV/femicide a national disaster.

“All we want is for the government to place resources in the right place” Jogiat pleads.

“South Africa is in public relations (PR) state. All we care for is our image to everyone else. When the reality of what we are dealing with as the women and children of this country is terrible.”

“We have been immune to it as everyday there is GBV case in media. What we are to do is sell ourselves to the highest bidder to make money. We will not be alarmed on how this will affect the woman who is beaten by her husband next door.”

“We really need to put thought into how this affects the citizens of this country on a global scale. It is of importance to highlight this issue a day before the G20 summit.”

“Until we stop burying our sisters every 2,5 hours, the G20 will not speak of growth and progress.”

Women for Change is adamant that the only way to beat GBV and femicide is through collective action. Inclusive with the help coming from men too.