“This country buries us before we are born. Calls us by our obituaries before it calls us by our names.”
– Koleka Putuma, EVERY THREE HOURS
Our country is again in a state of shock over yet another woman’s death at a man’s hands. Even the most optimistic people cannot help but feel hopeless and helpless at a time like this. As we continue to demand justice for the life of Namhla Mtwa and countless others who have taken their last breaths as a result of a man’s rage, our minds fill up with questions about why our lives mean so little to these men.
The pain that Namhla’s murder brings about is a familiar pain, so familiar that it feels as though when our hearts break, the pieces reassemble temporarily, waiting to disintegrate again when the next case is reported. This is because we all know Namhla. We all know a woman who has been tortured and tormented by a man: she is our mother, our sister, and our friend. Some live to tell the tale, but many do not, and they become another hashtag. As young women living in a country that hangs our dignity at half-mast, we are confronted with the reality that we could become a hashtag. So we fight. We fight for the woman whose screams were never heard, for the woman who is trying to leave but is fearful, for the woman begging for help. We fight for the woman just walking on the street.
It is scary to live in a country filled with violent men, but what is even more terrifying is the thought that the boys of our generation could become those men. So, to the good men of our society: our justice system is rigged against women. Please redefine masculinity by stepping up and teaching boys how to be honourable men who do not assert their power with violence. Please raise men from whom we do not have to protect ourselves. We are tired.
To Namhla’s family: we extend our sincerest condolences for your tragic loss. We wish you strength and support for the coming days and may peace, and comfort find you during this difficult time Rest now, Namhla, knowing that the fight continues in your name.
The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls strives to provide a nurturing educational environment for academically gifted girls who come from impoverished backgrounds.
In an effort to preserve the Academy’s mission by awarding scholarships to deserving learners from impoverished communities, the Academy welcomes the appointment of AFRIZAN PEOPLE INTELLIGENCE to provide learner recruitment services for the Academy’s 2023/24 intakes.
With over 30 years of experience in recruitment, Afrizan is able to deliver a consistent and specialised approach towards learner recruitment.
Prospective applicants must direct all admission queries to admissions@afrizan.co.za to find out more about 2023/24 applications.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit “Cookie Settings” to provide a controlled consent.