OPINION: Open Letter to Comrades

Alright after all that has been said by all comrades around the topic of GBV, Here are my two cents. Even though the topic at first, was around the question of RACISM ngokwe video that I shared. But also even though I am also not going to touch on it. Nayo iseyi ntsinda-badala itself as we the ANC lead this democratic, non-sexist, and non-racial society.

As I have said my two cents will touch only on the NON-SEXIST SOCIETY drawing it more analysis on what is also happening in other countries like the Philippines where most of this GBVF+ issue is practiced.

GENDER AND EQUALITY AS A CRITICAL APPRAISAL

Gender and equality are two critical concepts that have dominated the discourse of social justice and human rights for several decades. While gender pertains to the social and cultural constructions of masculinity and femininity, equality refers to the equal distribution of opportunities, rights, and benefits among individuals regardless of their gender. In this input, I aim to critically examine the current state of gender and equality and the challenges that the Philippines and the world at large in achieving this ideal.

First and foremost, it is imperative to acknowledge the persistent gender disparities and inequalities that exist in various domains of life such as education, employment, health, and political representation. Despite some progress, women continue to face discrimination, violence, and exclusion in many parts of the world especially ingakumbi apho kuthathwa khona izigqibo nezoqoqosho.

In the Philippines, for example, women still earn less than men and occupy fewer positions of power and decision-making. Furthermore, there are high rates of violence against women, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, which highlights the persistence of gender-based violence as a pervasive human rights violation. To a point uze ubone ukuba akubonwa nto iright.

Moreover, the recent times, COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the existing inequalities and discrimination faced by women. Women have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, both in terms of their health and the economic impact it has had on them. The pandemic has also reinforced existing gender stereotypes and norms, further perpetuating discrimination against women. If uzokhumbula ngexesha Level 5 in the case of South Africa a lot has happened because people were indoors and not even allowed to move out. Imagine what happened kwabo bebephila kwi toxic relationships, ungafika abanye zange bafe by covid but through suffocating environment.

Despite these challenges, there have been notable efforts to     address gender and equality. South Africa for instance, has enacted various laws and policies aimed at promoting gender equality and preventing violence against women, such as the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act. etc

Additionally, various civil society organizations and movements have been working towards promoting gender equality and women’s rights.

However, it is imperative to acknowledge that much work still needs to be done to achieve gender and equality. The implementation of laws and policies needs to be strengthened, and there must be a concerted effort to address the root causes of discrimination and inequality. Umzekelo today I learnt that courts soon zizoqala ukuba ziku prosecute even if the victim says she withdraws the case. Kubake wonke umntu belongs to the state.

This issue of GBV requires a multi-faceted approach that involves changes in attitudes, norms, and practices, as well as the creation of a more enabling environment for women’s empowerment.

Xa ndiyeka Bafethu I think gender and equality are critical issues that have far-reaching implications for individuals, communities, and societies. The persistence of gender disparities and inequalities highlights the need for continued efforts to address these issues and to promote the full realization of women’s rights Malibongwe!!! . Also as a society, we must recognize that gender equality is not only a human right but also essential need for sustainable development and the achievement of a just and equitable world.

Ndimile apho!!!!

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Article by Lihle Chalo, in his own capacity. Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Regional Hospital Board Member. Former Sinenkani Football Club General Manager, Now Serving ANCYL Winnie Madikizela Mandela Subregional Secretary.