Today, the Saartjie Baartman Centre hosted a powerful screening of the film Dorpie, sparking critical conversations around gender-based violence (GBV) and the resilience of women in fighting this ongoing crisis. This event brought together survivors, activists, and community members, all united by the desire to confront and end GBV in their communities.

Dorpie: A Story of Strength and Resilience

Dorpie is a compelling film that delves into the lives of women in small communities (or “dorps”) who face the harsh realities of GBV. It captures their struggles, triumphs, and the collective power they harness in the fight for safety, dignity, and justice. The film portrays the complexity of GBV and highlights how systemic issues such as poverty, lack of education, and ingrained societal norms perpetuate cycles of violence against women.

The screening at the Saartjie Baartman Centre was not just about sharing the stories depicted in Dorpie, but about using those stories as a catalyst for real change.

A Safe Space for Healing and Empowerment

The Saartjie Baartman Centre has long been a refuge and support system for women and children impacted by GBV. Hosting the screening of Dorpie at the Centre allowed women to share their personal experiences in a safe and empowering space. Attendees were encouraged to discuss how the themes of the film reflected their own lives and the lives of women they know.

Women Finding Solutions Together

The screening was followed by a collaborative discussion focused on finding actionable solutions to combat GBV in local communities. Women shared their thoughts on what can be done to better support survivors, improve access to justice, and promote education and prevention measures.

Key areas of focus included:

• Building Strong Support Networks: Women emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces where survivors can find support and solidarity.
• Raising Awareness: The group discussed how continued education and awareness campaigns can help change attitudes around GBV and encourage more people to speak out.
• Strengthening Legal Protections: Many voiced the need for stronger legal frameworks and enforcement to protect women from violence and hold perpetrators accountable.

The Power of Unity

The event highlighted a key message: together, women are unstoppable. Through solidarity and collective action, women can—and do—find solutions to the violence plaguing their communities. The event reminded everyone present that the fight against GBV requires collective efforts from women and men, communities, and policymakers.

Moving Forward

The screening of Dorpie is just one step in a larger movement toward ending GBV. The Saartjie Baartman Centre remains committed to providing support, raising awareness, and fostering change. Events like this create momentum, empowering women to lead the charge against violence and stand together in the face of adversity.

As the event closed, there was a shared sense of optimism and strength in the room. Women left feeling more connected, empowered, and ready to continue fighting for a future free from gender-based violence. Together, their voices are loud, their actions impactful, and their strength unbreakable.