Have you ever wonder why we celebrate Women’s Day on August 9 in South Africa? It has nothing to do with honouring females just because we need another “Mother’s Day”. We commemorate it because on August 9, 1956 women participated in a national march petitioned against pass laws.
Over 20 000 females of all races and ages from every corner of the country marched together towards the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
Organised by the Federation of South African Women, it was led by Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, Sophie Williams and Lilian Ngoyi. The leaders delivered petitions to former prime minister JG Strijdom’s office within the Union Buildings.
Most women throughout South Africa had put their names to the petition indicating their anger and frustration at having their freedom of movement restricted by the hated official passes.
South Africa today recognises their bravery.
Lowveld Media went to ask the public if they felt Women’s Day had affected their lives positively.
