Authored by: Cheryl Pillay | SA Rainbow News | 26th Nov 2025
On 21 November 2025, millions of women and men across South Africa made history as a national shutdown was held in the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF), led by the Women for Change movement.
#WomenForChange #NationalShutdown
In solidarity with this nationwide campaign, the Eldorado Park Community Interventions team, led by Cheryl Pillay, mobilised residents to gather at the Eldorado Park SAPS.
#EldoradoPark #CommunityAction
With GBVF cases rising at an alarming rate in the Greater Eldorado Park area, the call to action highlighted the urgent need to raise awareness and connect community members to the support networks available through local organisations and stakeholders.
#EndGBV #SupportSystems
The event drew overwhelming community support as hundreds united to stand against the violence affecting families daily. Families of victims were also invited and honoured with symbolic gifts — a candle representing light, socks symbolising footprints of remembrance, and a bracelet as a charm of hope.
#CommunitySolidarity #HonouringVictims
The gathering was attended by MEC Faith Mazibuko and the Speaker of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Margaret Arnolds, who joined the community in demonstrating their commitment to addressing this national crisis.
#LeadershipInAction #Gauteng
At exactly 12:00, participants observed a 15-minute moment of silence. The atmosphere was deeply emotional as survivors and families reflected on their pain, their strength felt across the crowd.
#MomentOfSilence #SurvivorsVoices
As voices rose across the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially declared GBV a national disaster — a long-awaited step in recognising the severity of the crisis.
#NationalDisaster #GovernmentResponse
This moment marks the beginning of a collective journey toward building a safer, more compassionate South Africa where every citizen is protected and treated with dignity.
#HopeForChange #SaferSouthAfrica
We salute the brave women and men who stood firmly in the fight. Their courage is a powerful reminder of what unity can achieve.
#UnityInAction #StrongerTogether
STAKEHOLDER APPRECIATION
We extend our sincere gratitude to all organisations and partners who played an active role:
* Ward 18 Cllr Juwairiya Kaldine
* NPA
* SAPS
* Rev Heidi Peterson
* FBOs
* CPF
* Come Back Mission
* Project Pick Six
* Hadassah Centre for Women
* My Life Matters
* From Gangs To Grace
* No More Victims
* SANCA
* Ext 2 and 9 Clinic
* National Neighbourhood Watch
* Masibanisane
* TDP Security
* African Recruitment
* Gail Brittoe Foundation
* Eldos Taxi Association
* Gauteng Housing Crisis Committee
* Tswelopelo Security
* Eldorado Park Family Crisis Centre
* COJ Rehab Centre Ext 9
* Building Bridges
* Eldos FM
* Eldorado Park True Men’s Forum
* Takalani Home for People with Disabilities
* Eldorado Park Women’s Forum
* BeCoCo
* Kliptown PCO
#CommunityPartners #ThankYou
As we move forward, we remain hopeful that this declaration will bring the resources needed to combat the ongoing crisis. We will continue advocating for stronger laws, harsher sentences, and greater accountability for perpetrators.
#JusticeForVictims #Accountability
United, we have shown our strength. Together, we rise.
#TogetherWeCan #PowerOfUnity
PRAYER FOR THE 21ST
Heavenly Father
We come together to stand against gender-based violence. We pray for an end to the pain, fear, and suffering experienced by individuals because of their gender. May we work towards a world where every person is treated with dignity, respect, and love.
We pray for survivors — for healing, comfort, and courage. May they feel supported, valued, and heard.
We pray for those who cause harm, that they may recognise their actions, seek transformation, and break the cycle of violence.
Lord, guide us as communities to create safety, compassion, and unity. Help us build a society where all can live freely and without fear.
Amen.
#PrayForPeace #EndGBV #FaithAndHealing
