WOMEN are the carriers of nations, and when they are abused and raped, the nation is abused and raped.

Violence affects the lives of millions of women throughout the world, it penetrates across cultural and religious barriers, and prevents women from participating fully in society.

Verbal, emotional, sexual and financial abuse create bruises and emotional pain that remain hidden, but which, over time, diminish a woman’s self-worth, integrity, confidence, identity and self-esteem – and erodes the soul with devastating consequences.

Domestic abuse is an equal opportunity destroyer and, although we would like to believe it is only happening in other communities, the reality is visible. The economic recession has a tremendous impact on domestic abuse, but does not result in domestic or other abuses.

However, for those with abusive tendencies, losing a job or facing financial ruin can escalate that abuse.

Abuse of women is a community issue that erodes the very foundation of family. Women must speak out so that the abuser is held accountable.

Boys raping elderly women and showing no remorse present a frightening and shocking scenario. If this is happening to the elderly, we should fear what is happening to young girls in our communities.

Women who find the courage to go through the justice system often find sentences given to perpetrators do not reflect the severity of the crime. Our justice system has failed thousands of women and children, and this evil has tainted our government and political parties.

Leaders in our community should lead by example. Before political parties appoint leaders or representatives, they should conduct a character check with the relevant family, friends and members of the community.

The government is failing to enforce the law against men who do not support their children. Lawlessness has become the in thing among our youth, and not enforcing the law contributes in raising men without backbone.

They make babies, but do not want to be financially responsible for their children, far too many of whom are homeless and fatherless.

Don’t be bystanders, speak out. Better understand violence and abuse against women.

Teach your daughters and grandchildren that abuse is not acceptable. Teach your sons and grandsons to respect women, and, when they get married, to honour their marital covenant.

Fathers should lead by example and should initiate love so their example could be followed by the children. Fathers should love and respect their wives, and should never provoke children to anger. – Democratic Alliance councillor Penelope Naidoo, Port Elizabeth