“One Billion Rising“

Thabang’s kids say no to abuse and violence

On Valentine’s Day the Thabang Children’s Project heeded the international call “One Billion Rising” to stand up against the abuse of and violence against children and women. The children painted posters which they carried on a march through Smash Block and demonstrated to passers-by at the gates of the other Thabang centres.

For South Africa the urgency of the “One Billion Rising” call is seen on the background of the horrific rape and slaughter of a young woman in the little town of Bredasdorp in the Western Cape.

In Smash Block more than thirty children of Thabang’s drop-in centre marched through the settlement under the scorching midday sun. “Down with abuse of children!”, “Viva Children’s Rights!” they were chanting. Ward councillor Stephen Lerumo was part of the demonstration. He thanked the Thabang project for their initiative.

In preparation of the event Thabang staff conducted talks with the kids discussing crucial topics like love, sex, behaviour between girls and boys, men and women.

March through Smash Block with Ward Councillor Stephen Lerumo.