MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Executive Mayor of Mosel Bay, Alderman Harry Levendal, laments the fact that often, friends, family, or neighbours know of incidents of violence or abuse and still choose the easy way out to turn their backs, claiming that it doesn't concern them. 

"People are afraid to get involved or to involve institutions that can help or do not know where to turn for help."

Levendal, in view of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based violence that starts this week, said that it is unfortunate that communities still must take a stand against this in 2020. 

"It is a pity that the basic principle of self-respect and respect for your fellow man is flawed and gives rise to violence against especially our women and children."

He conceded to the fact that living conditions are difficult. "Unemployment is skyrocketing. The isolation required from us by the Covid-19 pandemic is contributing to tensions in the family and the community. Discouragement and the feeling of hopelessness about circumstances beyond one's control likely contribute to the built-up frustration that often manifests itself in violent behaviour. Things are probably going to get a lot worse before it improves, but it will get better."

Levendal also pointed out that not only physical violence against one another destroys relationships, but that violence against the defenceless often manifests as in verbal, emotional, and psychological abuse, threats, coercion, and economic or educational exclusion, publicly or privately.

"There is no easy answer or antidote to the violence against the defenceless. As a community, however, we have a responsibility to reach out to others every day of the year - and not just during government campaigns - to assist the victims of violence. There are several institutions set up to address violent crimes. 

"For the benefit of our community, I urge everyone to get involved, to show compassion, and to heed the sometimes silent cry of distress of the victims. Even the perpetrator's actions may sometimes be a cry for help that often goes unanswered."

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