We Want To Be Free - A Book About Gender-Based Violence

This book about gender-based violence (GBV) is designed to inform young people in South Africa about violence against women and children, what to do when it happens, and how to help prevent it. It has been published by the Soul City Institute for Social Justice (formerly Soul City Institute for Health and Development Communication) as part of the Rise Young Women’s Clubs initiative, which works to mobilise and empower young women to participate in taking responsible action to shape their lives and the communities they live in.

The book covers the following topics:

• What is gender-based violence?
• Patriarchy and power
• Signs of abuse
• Exploring sexual orientation
• Take the relationship test
• Stories - short stories about sexual harassment to stimulate discussion
• Rape is real
• Standing together to fight rape
• What is consent?
• Messages to boys and men
• What to do if you have been raped
• Thuthuzela Care Centres (these have been set up in clinics and hospitals around the country to offer victims of gender-based violence all the services they need)
• The law is on our side
• If you are being abused
• Our guide to safer drinking
• What can you do?
• List of places to help

The book is intended for both men and women. Readers are guided through the different issues covered in the book by three female characters who help to explain the different topics. The book also includes personal stories, information about rights, and lists of things to think about and talk about related to the different topics.