On Monday, 9 September, the female learners of Hoërskool Die Adelaar took to the streets to make a statement that they will not stand for the abuse of women and children.
The abuse of women and children has been a long-standing problem throughout the world, but it has recently attracted more attention in South Africa, with a scourge of cases being reported and publicised lately.
Two learners, Tshiamo Sibisi and Khomotso Mokoena, went to their history teacher and said that they would like to make their voices heard, and a peaceful protest was then organised. The female learners made signs expressing their feelings on the issue and were led around the school on Monday afternoon.
The girls held their signs up high as they marched, passionately singing the words of Zizojika Izinto, meaning ‘things will turn around.’ While the girls marched, the male learners were gathered in the pavilion of the school, where Pastor Daniel Prinsloo spoke to them about respect.
The march ended with the girls joining the boys in the pavilion. The entire school gathered in the centre of the sports field to listen to the choir singing the National Anthem and Khumbaya.
