CMY3705
Assignment
1 Semester
2 2023
[School]
[Course title]
, CMY3705 Assignment 1 Semester 2 2023
Discuss the impact of harmful cultural practices within the South African
context. (Provide practical and real/actual examples of the harm caused).
Lastly, make an argument as to whether these practices should be made illegal
or continue to be practiced.
Harmful cultural practices within the South African context have significant
consequences for individuals, communities, and society at large. These practices
often stem from deeply rooted traditions and beliefs, but they can perpetuate
inequality, violence, and discrimination. Let's explore some practical examples of
such harmful practices and then consider the arguments for and against making
them illegal.
Child Marriage: Child marriage is a detrimental practice that affects the lives of
countless young girls. It denies them their right to education, exposes them to
health risks associated with early pregnancies, and increases their vulnerability to
domestic violence and poverty. Although South Africa has laws against child
marriage, there are still instances of underage marriages in certain communities
due to cultural practices.
Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C): Although FGM/C is more commonly
associated with certain regions in Africa, it is important to note that it occurs in
South Africa as well, primarily in immigrant communities. This harmful practice
can cause severe physical and psychological trauma to girls and women and often
violates their rights to bodily integrity and health.
"Corrective" Rape: This practice targets lesbian women and is based on the
misguided belief that rape can "cure" them of their sexual orientation. It
perpetuates violence, fear, and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and
can lead to lasting physical and emotional trauma.
Assignment
1 Semester
2 2023
[School]
[Course title]
, CMY3705 Assignment 1 Semester 2 2023
Discuss the impact of harmful cultural practices within the South African
context. (Provide practical and real/actual examples of the harm caused).
Lastly, make an argument as to whether these practices should be made illegal
or continue to be practiced.
Harmful cultural practices within the South African context have significant
consequences for individuals, communities, and society at large. These practices
often stem from deeply rooted traditions and beliefs, but they can perpetuate
inequality, violence, and discrimination. Let's explore some practical examples of
such harmful practices and then consider the arguments for and against making
them illegal.
Child Marriage: Child marriage is a detrimental practice that affects the lives of
countless young girls. It denies them their right to education, exposes them to
health risks associated with early pregnancies, and increases their vulnerability to
domestic violence and poverty. Although South Africa has laws against child
marriage, there are still instances of underage marriages in certain communities
due to cultural practices.
Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C): Although FGM/C is more commonly
associated with certain regions in Africa, it is important to note that it occurs in
South Africa as well, primarily in immigrant communities. This harmful practice
can cause severe physical and psychological trauma to girls and women and often
violates their rights to bodily integrity and health.
"Corrective" Rape: This practice targets lesbian women and is based on the
misguided belief that rape can "cure" them of their sexual orientation. It
perpetuates violence, fear, and discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community and
can lead to lasting physical and emotional trauma.
