16 VOICES ON 5 MID MORNINGS EP17 - THE VOICES WE WON'T HEAR

Between the 25th of November and the 10th of December 2024, we acknowledge globally 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. This initiative seeks to raise awareness, promote advocacy, and inspire action to combat gender-based violence  On 5 Mid Mornings Stephanie Be and Yonaka Theledi explore "16 Voices".  Each day of the 16 Days of Activism we hear a new voice and a new story, spotlighting the diverse experiences and perspectives surrounding gender-based violence in South Africa. This storytelling approach aims to educate, foster empathy, and mobilize young listeners to understand and engage with the cause. We have heard stories and been able to profile some phenomenally strong women throughout "16 Voices". But what about the voices we couldn't hear? What about the voices who have been silenced for ever? The 17th episode of "16 Voices" is dedicated to the Women who have no voice. The women who have been murdered. The woman who have been permanently silenced, we will never hear their stories. This 16 minutes of silence is for them. In South Africa, rape culture is a serious problem where violence and harassment against women are widespread. Unfortunately, society often responds with indifference or even blames the victims. Women face significant obstacles when trying to be believed—dismissive attitudes and doubts make it hard to find justice or even understanding. Every day, women struggle to be heard, respected, and be safe, often feeling alone and betrayed by a society (work, school, friends, family) that frequently ignores the assaults, and violence they endure.