Time to Stop Sexual Assault

Katherine Weber

Sexual assault and harassment is not a new issue in today’s society. What is more, it is a problem that seems to be growing as more and more people find the courage to speak up and tell their stories. Subsequently, a larger light is being shone on this problem. Because this issue is steadily increasing, April has been recognised as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in an attempt to spread awareness about sexual violence around the world. It does not solely focus on women’s issues but also includes steps and education for men who may find themselves in a similar situation. Though men’s sexual assault receives less attention than women’s, it is just as important. Given the increasing violence against women and men in South Africa, resources and issues surrounding this subject have the opportunity to come to the forefront in April. According to Speakout, sexual harassment can come in many different forms, which include, but are not limited to, aesthetic appreciation and sexual assault.

From 17 to 20 April, the Centre for Sexualities, AIDS and Gender (CSA&G) collaborated with UP’s Transformation Office. The two bodies commemorated the month by hosting numerous events meant to raise awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to be proactive.

Sexual Assault Awareness Week

Starting on Monday, 17 April, Students United Against GBV hosted a digital launch, in collaboration with the CSA&G and the UP Transformation Office, which discussed the impact of gender-based violence in the institution. Continuing on Tuesday, pledges were made on Hatfield Campus at the Wall. Students painted their hands and signatures on the Wall and promised to do better against r*pe culture and ignorance. Wednesday consisted of a workshop at the Akanyang building, where digital sexual harassment was discussed. The objective of the workshop was to raise awareness and educate communities on how to be proactive in preventing sexual assault. Digital sexual harassment can include revenge porn, unwanted sexting or sexual advances, bullying, and photo editing. Additionally, it entails any use of a digital platform to harass or assault another person.

Finally, the week ended with information sessions held outside the Transformation and Akanyang buildings on Thursday. These sessions gave a breakdown of what the CSA&G does and which services they provide. These include free HIV testing and counselling services, the 9-week entry-level training for volunteers, the distribution of internal resources like condoms, as well the distribution of pamphlets containing information on sexual assault. Events throughout the week were pushed forward by students belonging to Just Leaders, which operates under the CSA&G, and Speakout, which operates under the Transformation Office.

What you should do if you have been assaulted

PDBY spoke to a sister from the Student Health Services Centre about the process surrounding sexual assault. While the clinic does not offer r*pe kits, it still has a referral system in place to assist students who have been sexually assaulted. Once a student comes in, they are referred to an accredited clinic or the Tshwane District Hospital, where a forensic doctor is available to do the necessary testing. Security Services are also called in, and they make contact with an investigating officer in the SAPS if the person wishes to press charges. The Transformation Office is also contacted. If the crime is reported within three days of it