The focus of 2016’s 16 Days of Activism campaign is on gender and sexual violence. The campaign will run from 25 November – 10 December 2016. This year we are focusing on the Red My Lips idea to help raise awareness about violence, sexual abuse and rape. We call on everybody to wear red lipstick, or a creative alternative, all throughout the 16 Days of Activism period to create visibility and to raise awareness about sexual and gender violence and SPEAK OUT against rape myths, victim-blaming and gender violence!
The ACVV’s official RED MY LIPS LIPSTICK DAY takes place on Friday, 25 November 2016 and thereafter on every day until 10 December 2016. Turn everything red and go out in full force! Apart from red lips, you can also dress your workplace, trees, etc. in red and/or in red & white. ACVV service units all received 2 posters, as well as stickers and an info sheet which they can print out as flyers. They also received a sheet with red lips which can be printed and cut out for “lips-on-a stick” for men and/or children. Feedback by ACVV service units on the campaign must reach ACVV Head Office not later than 14 December 2016.
Results of the Optimus Study in South Africa makes it clear that, by the time teenagers are 15 – 17 years old, many young South Africans have experienced sexual, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or have been exposed to high rates of violence. The incidence of sexual violence against boys is the same as for girls. Violence and rape is therefore not a just women’s issue. It is a HUMAN ISSUE. It affects us ALL.
Also see ACVV National Council’s Facebook page for photo’s of the Red my Lips campaign. For more information please contact your nearest ACVV branch or service unit or Nicolette van der Walt, National Manager Child Protection at ACVV Head Office. Paint the town RED and SPEAK OUT against violence, sexual abuse and rape!
