Across South Africa, communities paused in solidarity to remember lives lost to gender-based violence and show that change is possible
South Africa (24 November 2025) – On Friday, 21 November, South Africans across the country paused for 15 minutes. Choosing silence to make a loud statement. From schools and universities to workplaces, people lay down in quiet reflection, honouring the 15 lives lost every day to gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa.
This national act of solidarity formed part of a growing call for change. In the days leading up to the demonstration, social media turned purple.
Purple profile pictures, purple landmarks, purple timelines. They were sparked by the Women for Change petition, which has surged past its 900,000-signature target, calling for GBV to be declared a national crisis. The online wave became physical on Friday, as the silence spread across. While the examples below reflect just a few demonstrations, countless groups across the country took part.
Roosevelt High School
Educators and Grade 12 learners at Roosevelt High School stood together. Their message was clear: awareness alone is not enough. They spoke about GBV affecting families, friends, classrooms and futures, urging young people to be part of a generation that breaks the cycle.
University of the Free State
The University of the Free State community gathered for a 15-minute silent demonstration, remembering those who never made it home.
Wandisile Nkwalase
For runner Wandisile Nkwalase, the protest was deeply personal.
“After my run, I lay down in silence for every woman who never got the chance to stand back up. This silence is not weakness. It’s a statement.”
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His quiet tribute echoed what thousands across the country felt.
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Friday’s demonstrations were just a glimpse of a much bigger response happening nationwide. The widespread participation shows that change is possible.
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