Why do we do it?
written by Clare Verbeek
Every day in October, supporters of Blocktober walk or run or cycle up to the Blockhouse. This stone look-out fort was built on Devil’s Peak in 1795-96 as part of a defense system for the Cape Colony. Later it became a communication hub.
There have been 8 organised walks to the Blockhouse so far this month, with a variety of participants expressing their solidarity with victims of gender-based violence. It takes us about an hour each way, on a steep, stony road.
We asked participants: What do these walks mean to you? Why do you participate? Here are some of their responses:
• The Flats are so flat. Up here you can see the future.
• I walk and I think. You have to put one foot in front of the other.
• It is freedom!
• I value talking with the Saartjie Baartman people and hearing their stories. It is a small kind of solidarity with beautiful people.
• Victims of GBV have to climb mountains daily. Walking up come rain or shine is what they have to do.
• It is great to be able to walk on the mountain with others and feel safe together.
• I put aside my worries when I am in nature. But I don’t like miggies!
• I never thought I would become a hiker, but look at me!
• It is my way of standing up against GBV.
• I feel safe and supported.
What does Blocktober mean to you?
Add your comment below.
Read more about Blocktober here blocktober.co.za
Read more blog posts https://stepsforsaartjie.blogspot.com/2025/10/read-other-steps-for-saartjie-blogs.html?m=1
Donate using this link https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/blocktober-and-saartjie-baartman-centre-2026
It brings light and sunshine to what would otherwise be a very difficult topic (and sometimes the southeaster joins in just to blow all the cobwebs away). More importantly, it allows us all to think about what we can do to changes things and creates opportunities for people to connect with each other and the environment, not least the kids who are experiencing the mountain for the first time.
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