It’s that time of year again, where we’re called to pause, to remember, and to take action. The annual 16 Days of Activism Against Violence Towards Women and Children is not just another campaign—it’s a lifeline for many. Each day is an opportunity to make a real difference, to lift up voices silenced by fear, and to stand firm in love against one of the darkest issues of our time. This isn’t about overwhelming ourselves with heavy statistics or pointing fingers; it’s about opening our hearts and doing what we can, one day at a time.
Here are 16 meaningful actions—small steps that, together, can help shine a light in the darkness.
Day 1: Start with Prayer
Begin with prayer, individually or as a group, asking God to open hearts, strengthen voices, and provide comfort to those affected by violence. Ask Him for guidance in how you can be a channel of peace and justice during these 16 days and beyond.
Day 2: Educate Yourself
Violence is often rooted in cycles and patterns we don’t fully understand. Today, dedicate time to learn more about the realities of violence against women and children. Read reliable articles, books, or watch a documentary on the subject. Understanding helps us empathize and act with wisdom.
Day 3: Share a Statistic or Story
On social media or among friends, share one statistic or survivor story to highlight the reality of violence. Be mindful of sharing information that is too sensitive or that can trigger trauma, but don’t be afraid to make others aware of the urgency of this issue.
Day 4: Support a Centre
Find a local shelter or organization that provides refuge to survivors, and see how you can support them. Perhaps a donation, collecting supplies, or volunteering for a day—whatever you can do will be appreciated. If you are in Pretoria or Cape Town, why not contact Beth Shan or Carehaven to see how you can support one of The Salvation Army’s care centres.
Day 5: Wear Orange
The colour orange represents a brighter future free from violence. Wear orange today and share why, either in person or online, to raise awareness and show solidarity with survivors.
Day 6: Write to a Survivor
If there’s a safe way to do so, write a letter or note to a survivor in a care centre/shelter, offering words of encouragement, love, and hope. Let them know that they are not alone, and that they are seen, valued, and supported.
Day 7: Host a Gathering
Gather friends or family and host a small gathering—whether it’s coffee, tea, or a meal—to talk about the importance of this campaign. Encourage open conversations about ending violence and what each of you can do in your own circles.
Day 8: Advocate for Stronger Protections
Write or call local government representatives, asking them to support policies that protect women and children from violence. It might feel intimidating, but leaders need to know that ending violence matters to their constituents.
Day 9: Speak with Youth
Violence often begins as an attitude. Spend time talking to the young people in your life about respect, healthy relationships, and boundaries. Modeling and discussing these values can make a lasting impact.
Day 10: Raise Awareness on Social Media
Use social media to spread the word. Share facts, resources, and inspirational messages each day. It’s a simple way to reach more people and remind them of their role in ending violence.
Day 11: Learn and Share Support Lines
Look up and share the contact information for local and national helplines for those experiencing violence. Make sure they’re available for others to see, even if you don’t know who might need them.
Here are some of the national helpline numbers
| National GBV Helpline | 0800 150 150 |
|---|---|
| National Counselling Line | 0861 322 322 |
| Childline South Africa | 0800 055 555 |
| South African Police Service | 10111 |
| Legal Aid | 0800 110 110 |
Day 12: Host a Moment of Silence
At work, church, or home, set aside a moment of silence to honour the lives lost to violence. Use this time to reflect on what part you can play in ending the cycle of abuse.
Day 13: Support Businesses That Stand Against Violence
Choose to support businesses that actively stand against violence or contribute to anti-violence organizations. Spend with purpose, knowing that your choices can influence change.
Day 14: Engage in Self-Reflection
Take a look within. Ask yourself if there are beliefs, words, or actions that may unknowingly support unhealthy patterns. Sometimes, our own perceptions need reshaping. Pray for wisdom and ask God to help you see others with compassion and respect.
Day 15: Organise a Drive for Essentials
Centres and shelters often need supplies like clothing, toiletries, blankets, and non-perishable food items. Organise a drive within your community or workplace, collecting items to donate to a local centre or shelter.
Day 16: Commit to Long-Term Change
Ending violence isn’t a one-time event; it’s a lifestyle of awareness, advocacy, and support. Today, make a personal commitment. It could be donating resources, volunteering, or continuing to share information year-round.
This journey isn’t just about these 16 days. It’s about making choices that reflect God’s love and our value for each human being, every day. Together, we can create spaces of safety, love, and healing. Because that’s what the Kingdom of God looks like: a place where peace reigns, and no one is left to suffer alone.
So let’s do this—one day, one step, one act of love at a time… and let’s leave no one behind.