THIS year marks the 65th anniversary of the 1956 women’s march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, against the apartheid pass laws – an event that truly changed the course of our country’s history.
As a country that celebrates its heritage, we are forever indebted to all 20 000 women who were courageous and brave to say ‘enough is enough’.
ALSO READ: ISSUES AT STAKE: How the rich and the elite manipulated the poor and uninformed
Their struggle was to see black women and men stop carrying an identity document (mostly referred to as ‘dompas’) wherever they were going.
South Africans young and old need to truly honour these women who paved the way for the freedom we have today, and sing praises to these giants of history and their fearlessness.
The spirit of fighting for their rights was not prevented by the positions they held in society.
They came from all walks of life; from women who were domestic workers, and those who held higher positions in society.
Women of that period were devoted revolutionists who never allowed the apartheid system to intimidate them or mock their capabilities and potential.
We sing praises to Albertina Sisulu, Ruth First and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, just to mention a few, and to those whose names are not known. History is indebted to their selfless contribution.
It is fair to say that without such resilient, selfless women, South Africa would not be where it is today.
As we remember the importance of 9 August and its significance in our history, we need to prioritise the safety of women and children.
Their lives are constantly under threat as they are the most defenceless.
Gender-based violence is a pandemic in this country; the justice system continues to fail women and children.
We ought to remember that this freedom is under threat as long as women’s and children’s lives are not safeguarded financially, physically and psychologically.
Those women of renaissance stood tall for what they believed in, fighting for justice. Moreover, they sacrificed their lives for future generations to enjoy the free will they have today.
This march fought for a better South Africa where all beings, regardless of colour and status, are treated equally and with dignity.
We salute these women who, against all odds, laid a foundation for women’s rights.
• Nokwazi Mthembu is a PhD student at the University of KZN and resides in the KwaDlangezwa area.
