Women’s Month – you strike the woman, you strike the rock

On 9 August 1956, 20 000 women from all walks of life marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the unjust pass laws that were being enforced at the time. The march was coordinated by the Federation of South African Women (Fedsaw) led by four women: Lillian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa and Sophia Williams De Bruyn.

The first National Women’s Day was celebrated in 1994, the year that South Africa became a democratic republic. The 9^th of August was declared a public holiday and has since been a day where South African’s pay tribute to the brave women who came together and stood up against sexist laws that restricted their freedom of movement and rights to equality. That day in 1956 was a turning point in the role of women in the struggle for freedom and equality. Since the first National Women’s Day, great strides to improve the status of all women have been made and continue to be made. For example, in 1994, women made up less than three percent of the South African parliament, while today they make up over 40 percent of that body.

Women’s Month is just as significant now as it was in 1994 as South Africa and the world continue to work together to empower women in all spheres of life. August is the time to reflect on the many achievements of the brave women of our past who fought against gender, race and class oppression, and to remember them as those who laid the foundation for a gender equitable society in South Africa.

Women’s Month and National Women’s Day exist to remind us, not only of the past gallant women who stood in solidarity for our freedom, but also to acknowledge the present-day progress of women of all races, religion and upbringing despite the challenges faced. Women of South Africa, be proud of your achievements and believe in your strengths and abilities! August is our chance to celebrate women’s many triumphs and the important role they play in South African society.

Whether you are a man or woman, we know you all know many strong women who should be honoured this month. Let’s celebrate. Here are a few ideas of how to celebrate yourself or that special woman in your life this Women’s Month:

• 9 August is a Wednesday, perfect for a mid-week #treatyourself day. Make sure you spend the day doing things that you enjoy and that bring meaning to your life
• Compliment all the wonderful women in your life
• Read a book by your favourite female author
• Have fun with your friends and family!