As a Zimbabwean social justice advocate, I cannot help but notice the overwhelming outrage and condemnation directed at the perpetrator, Gora. While it is important to recognize the impact of violence against women and girls, it is equally crucial to acknowledge that violence knows no gender boundaries. Men can also be victims, and their suffering should not be overlooked.
The tragic death of Sharon, a life cut short in the prime of youth, is a somber reminder of the darkness that can lurk within human hearts. My heart goes out to her grieving family, who must now bear the burden of this unimaginable loss. The pain they must be feeling is immeasurable, and my sympathies are with them during this incredibly difficult time.
In the wake of Sharon’s untimely death, the Zimbabwean internet has, understandably, erupted with anger and sorrow. Posts on social media platforms are overflowing with expressions of condemnation towards Gora, the alleged killer. The description of the act as “cruel, callous, and shocking” echoes the sentiments of many who are appalled by this act of violence. The effects of violence against women and girls cannot be overstated—it leaves scars that run deep, not only on the victims themselves but also on their families and communities.
However, it is important to approach this issue with a critical lens. While the focus on violence against women and girls is justified, there seems to be a selective blindness when it comes to violence against men in Zimbabwe, as well as the rest of the world. Society’s reaction to incidents of female on male violence is often muted, and the victims themselves struggle to find the support and empathy that should be accorded to all survivors of violence. This bias is deeply entrenched, perpetuated by societal expectations and the perpetuation of gender stereotypes.
Where is the public uproar when women are the perpetrators of violence against their partners or husbands?
News articles detailing such cases rarely gain the same level of attention as when a male commits an act of violence. Even the politicians themselves are afraid to stand in solidarity with men for fear of being “canceled out”. Stand with men and you’ll be called a misogynist- a woman hater. Cowards! Hypocrites!
The stories of men who have lost their lives at the hands of their female partners are pushed to the sidelines, relegated to the depths of obscurity. It is as if society lacks the capacity to acknowledge, let alone condemn, violence when the roles are reversed.
Take, for example, the chilling cases of female on male violence in Zimbabwe.
How about the Zvishavane woman wo killed her husband over sex? Or that Mkoba Gweru woman who brutally killed her husband after being caught cheating? I didn’t see them get a front page headline, or spark outrage for that matter. I could go on and on all day long.
I’m not trying to trivialize the violence against men but these violence incidents against men should elicit the same level of outrage and concern as any act of violence. It is disheartening to witness the lack of support for male victims who suffer in silence, their stories buried beneath the weight of societal biases.
But amidst this disillusionment, a glimmer of hope emerges. The rise of men’s rights advocates in Zimbabwe, such as SaveAman movement and its co-founder Lovemore Chishamba (calls himself General Luverty), offers a promising outlook for the future. This organization has garnered considerable support from both genders, boasting an estimated 10 thousand supporters who stand in solidarity with oppressed men. Their mission, to fight for the rights of male victims, aligns with the pursuit of justice and equality- or fight it.
However, it is important to note that while I may not always agree with their methods, groups like SaveAman serve as a voice for the silent victims of male violence. Their efforts should be commended for shedding light on an issue that often goes unnoticed or dismissed. By challenging societal biases and advocating for equal treatment and support for all victims, they are working towards a more inclusive and equitable society. I truly hope SaveAman will be able to tutor advocates who are level headed and will be able to eradicate hate against men, and everyone as a whole.
As the American saying goes, “our interests are aligned.” In recognizing that violence is violence, regardless of the gender of the victim or perpetrator, we can forge a path towards a safer and more equitable future. It is incumbent upon us, as Zimbabwean social justice advocates, to unite in the face of violence and address the biases that perpetuate inequality. Let us work together, set aside our preconceived notions, and extend our support to all survivors, irrespective of their gender.
In conclusion, the tragic death of Sharon should serve as a wake-up call to our society. Violence knows no gender boundaries, and it is our collective responsibility to stand against all forms of violence. We must challenge the prevailing biases that diminish the suffering of male victims and drive them into silence. By recognizing and condemning all acts of violence, we can strive towards creating a future where no one lives in fear or suffers silently. Let us come together, support organizations like SaveAman, and forge a path towards a society where violence has no place. As the Americans say, “our interests are aligned” , and it is time for us to unite in the fight against violence.
Kumbirai Thierry Nhamo | Social Justice Advocate