Dear Campus Community,
Women For Change has called for national action on Friday, 21 November 2025, urging South Africans to stand together and demand that gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide be declared a National Disaster—now.
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) remains committed to justice, dignity, and the protection of vulnerable communities. In solidarity with the national call for action against GBV, UWC encourages staff and students to participate in the following meaningful ways on 21 November:
- Wear black as a visible expression of mourning and solidarity.
- Change your profile picture to purple, symbolising strength and resistance.
- Join the 15-minute Standstill at 12:00, wherever you may be.
- Amplify awareness by sharing the campaign message using #WomenShutdown.
To demonstrate institutional solidarity, UWC will update all official digital profile images - including social media icons, email banners, and the University homepage - to purple for the day.
As we reflect on the purpose of this nationwide protest, it is essential to remember that support is available. If you or someone you know needs help, please make use of the following verified emergency numbers from the official government GBV resource booklet and our campus-based support:
GBV Command Centre
0800 428 428
Dial *120*7867# from any cellphone
SMS Line for Persons with Disabilities
SMS “help” to 31531
Childline South Africa
0800 055 555
SAPS Crime Stop
08600 10111
SMS Crime Line: 32211
National Human Trafficking Helpline
0800 222 777
Stop Gender Violence Helpline
0800 150 150
Suicide Helpline
0800 567 567
UWC Centre for Student Support Services (CSSS)
24/7 Free Call Counselling Helpline
0800 222 333
SMS 31393
Book a session: csss@uwc.ac.za
Wellness@Work Care Centre (UWC Staff Support)
24/7 assistance
0800 205 333
info@wellwork.co.za
SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group)
24/7 Free, confidential counselling
0800 21 21 21
SMS 43001
UWC has a proud legacy of being on the right side of history, and in the fight against gender-based violence we are committed to aligning ourselves with all organisations that stand for justice in our society.
Yours sincerely,
Professor Robert Balfour
Rector and Vice-Chancellor
