MEN URGED TO STAND UP AGAINST VIOLENCE ON WOMEN, CHILDREN
By David Masango, Pretoria

November 24, 2003 – (BuaNews - Pretoria) Social Development Minster Zola Skweyiya has called on all men, particularly in the Western Cape, to take a stand against violence against women and children by supporting the Good Men's March taking place in Cape Town tomorrow.

The march is scheduled to start at Athlone Civic Centre and proceed to Athlone Stadium as part of events to mark the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign observed from 25 November until 10 December annually.

The campaign is aimed at raising public awareness on human rights and gender violence.

The march is jointly organised by, among others, the Archbishop of Cape Town Njongonkulu Ndungane, the Mayor of Cape Town Nomaindia Mfeketo, the Santos Football Club, Women Demand Dignity, some non-governmental organisations and the media.

The Santos Football Club will also play against an invited side composed of foreign players from various clubs in Cape Town in a match dedicated to the event.

Dr Skweyiya urged men to ensure that people who violated the rights of women and children were punished.

"This is the moment to take a stand and join the Good Men's March against the despicable acts of violence against women and children," he implored.

Even more importantly, he said it was during this time that perpetrators of such crimes would be made to feel the wrath of the nation.
"Together as men, lets say enough."

The organisers of the march will tomorrow brief the media about the role of various stakeholders in the March as well as its significance for the building of a better life for women and children.

From: http://allafrica.com/stories/200311240894.html