This Women’s Day and Women’s Month, let’s remember why 20 000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria on August 9 1956 – in one of the largest demonstrations in the country’s history – to present a petition against the carrying of passes by women to the prime minister, JG Strijdom.
The action showed women’s extraordinary strength and courage to fight for their rights.
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However, this fight must continue beyond Women’s Day or Women’s Month, it should be every day.
‘You Strike a Woman, You Strike a Rock’ has become synonymous with that march 64 years ago and all women should carry those words with them in spirit.
However, not a day goes by when one does not hear reports about a woman or young girl being murdered, raped or abused.
Today, the fight is against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The national crime statistics were released by police minister Bheki Cele last week and these revealed that crimes against women (murder, sexual offences, attempted murder, assault GBH, common assault) stood at 171 070 for 2019/2020.
The previous year (2018/2019) 179 683 women suffered the same fate.
While the numbers have decreased, is it reason enough to celebrate?
Not so, this scourge continues unabated. What about the cases that go unreported? What about those women or girls who are too afraid to speak out or stand up for themselves?
Let’s not forget, women are the backbone of family, community and society.
They are able to display enormous fortitude under the most trying circumstances.
But for how long will women have to be afraid? Those men who perpetrate violence against them obviously see them as weaker, making them vulnerable in their homes, workplaces and in public.
When will society stand up, men and women included to end these crimes – not doing anything is a crime in itself.
Besides law enforcement, there are a number of non-profit organisations fighting against GBV – helping women escape violent situations.
Let’s support them. If you know of someone caught in these tragic circumstances, offer them help or seek assistance for them.
Also, as families and communities let’s teach our girls and boys to respect and look out for each other and guide them to grow into responsible adults.
While this is easier said than done, especially with the enormous social issues faced by the population, it is worth a try.
A quote to celebrate Women’s Day which has been observed since 1995 in South Africa: “Here’s to strong women: May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.” – Unknown
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