City facilitates fathers and sons dialogue
10 December 2024
The two-day workshop, titled ‘Fatherhood for the Future’, aligned with the 16 Days of Activism Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence. The workshop was facilitated by the Community, Arts & Culture Development Department.
Workshop participants included men and boys from Langa, Kraaifontein, Delft, Mfuleni, and Cape Town CBD.
Facilitators used art and therapeutic techniques to foster dialogue and connection.
‘The workshop provided a safe space for participants to share their experiences and challenge harmful gender norms. The primary goal was to strengthen father-son relationships by emphasising the importance of modelling positive behaviour. Additionally, the participants created art pieces that symbolise their commitment to preventing gender-based violence.
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‘Social expectations and cultural norms often reinforce ideas of masculinity that equate strength with aggression, making violence seem like an acceptable response to conflict. It is imperative that we chart a different path if we are serious about building a safer society for women, children and men who are victims of abuse,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.
As part of the programme, the men and boys also developed individual and community action plans to address GBV. These plans are intended to guide their actions and commitments beyond the workshop.
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The initiative concluded with a ceremony earlier today, coinciding with the closing of the International 16 Days of Activism Campaign.
The CACD department remains dedicated to promoting awareness and action against GBV through year-round initiatives.
‘South Africa experiences some of the highest rates of violent behaviours and femicide globally. Statistics show that most GBV cases target women and girls, often perpetrated by men. With the workshop, we hope to further challenge harmful gender norms and stereotypes that fuel violence,’ added Councillor Van der Ross.
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
