How to celebrate Women’s Day during lockdown in South Africa

Women’s Day in South Africa is observed on the 9th of August annually. This day was designated to commemorate the 1956 march which involved about 20 000 women marching to the Union Buildings in an effort to bring about racial equality in South African society.

Women’s Day is also an important day in South Africa due to the fact that the country has one of the highest rates of femicide and rape in the world. The month of August, marked as Women’s Month, is therefore used to raise awareness about important issues that affect women, celebrate their achievements as well as uplift them.

With Covid-19 still affecting our daily lives, Women’s Day celebrations and awareness campaigns are being held under strict adherence to lockdown restrictions, meaning this year’s Women’s Day will have to be approached innovatively. Here’s how you can celebrate Women’s Day safely during lockdown:

1.  Have a virtual celebration

Seeing that meeting up in large groups is prohibited, a virtual congregation is a great way to celebrate Women’s Day. Why not gather a few of your girlfriends on a video call and have a virtual breakfast, lunch or dinner together?

You can also virtually meet up to discuss issues that affect you as women and if you don’t identify as a woman, you can also have a virtual celebration with the women in your life to show them how much you appreciate them.

2. Send a woman in your life a gift

If you can’t meet up with the women you appreciate, why not send them a gift? Buying a thoughtful gift and having it couriered is a sweet gesture that is bound to make someone smile.

Nothing says “you are appreciated” like a gift with a note that says, “I saw this and thought of you.” So, make someone’s day this Women’s Day!

3. Sign petitions and educate yourself

Although Women’s Day is all about celebrating women, it’s also about tackling issues that are difficult to discuss, like gender-based violence. Take some time off to sign a couple of petitions related to the cause and find out how you can make an active contribution to making South African society safer for women.

4. Take care of yourself

We’re all familiar with the adage, “if you can’t love yourself, you can’t love somebody else.” The saying is corny, but true.

Self care is an important part of loving yourself. In order for you to show up for others, you have to be able to show up for yourself first. Make sure you’re taking care of your mental, emotional and physical health.

Take Women’s Day off to recharge and completely focus on yourself. Book a day at the spa, take a social media detox or meditate in nature. Your body, mind and soul will thank you for it!

5. Support women-owned businesses

A great way to show solidarity with women on Women’s Day is to support women-owned businesses. Make a conscious effort to empower women who are entrepreneurs; from the hawker on the side of the road who sells snacks, to the bakery on the corner of your street.

Actively supporting the women around you will make a huge difference in their lives.