It's not a walk in the park (13 October 2026)

It's not a walk in the park 

Written by Janeen de Klerk

Seven friends began our solidarity walk on Tuesday 6th October 2026 in late afternoon light, vivid colours of the fynbos and beautiful sights of Cape Town. Quite a contrast to the dark, dull and scary walk experienced by survivors of GBV and the last steps victims were able to take.

Walking allowed us to reflect silently on why we chose to participate, as well as time to have shared conversations (serious or light) and admire the beauty around us. It's not a “walk in the park”, our individual struggles as we climb the hill are a reminder of the long, hard and slow journey survivors follow as they heal and / or seek justice. 

We took one wrong turn and deviated off the path but got back on track after stopping and consulting with each other.  Something minor but it made one realise how important and comforting support  and solidarity can be for survivors trying to find their path. 

We were accompanied by Bella – a four legged friend – whose joyful freedom as she explored the mountain is what we all wish we could experience in South Africa

A few thoughts from my fellow walkers:

A beautiful spring walk high above the Cape Town evening traffic with special friends, in solidarity with victims/survivors of GBV and recognition of the uphill struggle they so often face.

What a meaningful initiative. The walk was harder than I’d remembered. Lots and lots of steady uphill which was challenging. It truly made me feel in a tiny way what it must be like being a victim and survivor of Gender Based Violence and having to find a way to claim back your life. Thank you for making this happen so that we can show our solidarity. 

The walk up to the Blockhouse was indeed a slow burn in solidarity. It demanded meaningful participation. It provoked good conversation and thought.

A rocky/stony path that makes the walk difficult and characterises the road that GBV survivors have to tread as they try to get their lives back.

A lovely evening walk overlooking our beautiful city which belies some of the dreadful violence affecting our citizens. We walked in recognition of GBV in our communities, to raise awareness and hopefully eradicate this scourge in society.

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