National Women’s Day was celebrated nationwide on Tuesday (August 9) in memory of women who were determined and united in their fight against racial discrimination.
On 9 August 1956, more than 20 000 women gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria to demonstrate their opposition to the Apartheid government’s legislation, that insisted that all black women had to carry passports (identity documents) with them. These women left bundles of petitions with more than 100 000 signatures at the office door of the prime minister, JG Strijdom.
Afterwards they stood outside, many with children on their backs, and protested in silence for 30 minutes. The women composed and sang a song, “Wathint’Abafazi Wathint’imbokodo!”, which gave rise to the slogan: “You strike a woman, you strike a rock”, which today represents the courage and strength of South African women.
In August, Weslander will feature some wonderful West Coast women who are making a difference in their communities.
Nominate your candidate by sending a Whatsapp to 082 576 0453.
