Freedom, a word used liberally in our country, but do we experience ‘freedom’? The Oxford dictionary defines freedom as the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants. As we draw close to another of our public holidays, ‘Freedom Day’ to be precise…one cannot help but wonder if we live in a country where we experience freedom?
Freedom Day is celebrated annually on the 27th of April in honour of the auspicious day in 1994 when the first non-racial election was held in the country. South Africa celebrates this day to mark the liberation of our country and its people. However, can we in all honesty celebrate this day of liberation, when we are still held captive by so many social injustices such as child abuse, rape, child trafficking and exploitation. Recent media reports have placed a spot light on the tragic story of a little girl named Cwecwe from the Eastern Cape. This little girl was subjected to the horror of rape. The Justice for Cwecwe Movement emerged shortly after her ordeal. Her case is just one of many such cases that have come to light, and simply because a group of people within her family and community network raised their voices to say enough is enough! Justice is needed! Their campaign has shed light on the systemic failures of our government, policing, and agencies of justice.
The failure of our South African government to protect vulnerable children is not an isolated incident. It reflects a larger crisis of governance, law enforcement, and social support systems in South Africa. The sad truth is that girls and even boys across the country live daily in fear of bodily harm and violence. Despite government’s attempts to stop Gender Based Violence (GBV) though passing laws and policies aimed at curbing this social issue, the reality on the ground reflects that an ever increasing number of children are affected.
Stats within our organisation alone indicate that of at least 1 in every 5 admissions is as a result of abuse. We cannot rely on the government alone to make a difference. Nelson Mandela once said, “Freedom can never be taken for granted. Each generation must safeguard it and extend it.” As Freedom Day approaches let us each take a moment to reflect on how we, in our little corner can contribute towards creating save spaces for the children in our families and communities so they can truly be free.