... while not in others. South Africa, like many countries, is a violent country and the violence has been part of all of South African culture. Columnist Paul Berkowitz refers to the anger and violence in our society as toxic. At Parliament we have spent many hours discussing the broad prevalence of rape, for example, and its effect on women. And one thing is certain; we are not going to diminish the problem without a paradigm shift in our thinking. A shift is needed in terms of giving value and respect, not only to women, but also to human life: valuing babies, children and men. Rape, you see, does not only affect women but it also affects babies, children and men too.
Our culture, like many others, celebrates violence. Even our heroes are violent. One observation is that, in general men, more than women, are ill- equipped for either effective communication or conflict resolution. Statistics show most violence is committed by men. However, one thing that is almost completely unacknowledged is the existence of male rape, the rape of men. The importance for male victims of this violent crime to also be considered and the effects on them taken seriously has been almost completely overlooked, and probably will while we all talk away today.
No matter the character of the man, I am told, rape can be extremely traumatic and difficult to work through. As a group, male rape victims often get minimal services and support and legal systems are often ill- equipped to deal with this type of crime. Diane Stevens, a journalist and prison counsellor says:
Rape is a physically and psychologically damaging evil act that causes similar incalculable damage and lifelong psychological disturbance whether it is forced on males or females.
A major problem facing male victims is a sense of vulnerability, damaged self-image and loss of manhood. Male survivors are disturbed by the notion that they could not protect themselves and were somehow conquered, even if there were many attackers. Stevens, who has written more than most on this subject, says that, despite indications that male rape is widespread, she has not found any reports of males charged or convicted of raping males. Rapes on males are underreported compared to rape and sexual assault on females, as male survivors are less likely to report the crime and seek help.
Stevens says that boys are often not taught their rights nor are they taught how to respect the rights of others. They are not taught how to say no to abuse by clergy, scoutmasters, coaches and other potential perpetrators.
In mobilising society towards consolidating democracy and freedom, the ACDP calls on the church, the community and traditional leaders to take the initiative in guiding and ensuring young boys and men become role models for the next generation.
The ACDP also calls ... [Time expired.]