Sparked by a sea of purple profile pictures and an inspiring wave of activism, South Africans have united to champion the Women for Change petition, which has successfully surged past its 900,000-signature goal to declare GBV a national crisis.
South Africa (12 November 2025) – Over the past few days, South Africa has turned purple – a colour of strength, justice, and remembrance for every woman and child stolen by Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
South Africans from all corners of the country and supporters beyond borders have joined forces in this bold display against violence that has continuously devastated countless families and, at its worst, claimed the lives of the most vulnerable. And now, the world is finally watching.
This week, Good Things Guys reported on how hundreds of thousands have turned their social media profile pictures purple and championed the signing of the Women for Change (WFC) petition, which declares GBV and femicide a national crisis.
As of yesterday, the petition has surpassed its goal of 900,000 signatures – an accomplishment that has moved Sabrina Walter, Founder of WFC, to the core.
“As I sit and reflect on these past few days, my heart feels both heavy and full,” she said in a speech.
“As I look back on this long journey, I am overcome with gratitude. To every single one of you who stood with us, who signed, who wore purple, who refused to look away – thank you. Because of you, our petition has grown beyond 900,000 voices. 900,000 people saying enough. 900,000 hearts demanding justice.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for caring with me, for believing with me, and for standing beside me through every heartbreak and every triumph.”
You did that, Mzansi! Every person who has signed, shared, and worn their purple with pride has played their part in the collective heartbeat demanding justice and a safer world for all.
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Sources: Women for Change
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