From being able to legally vote and continuing to combat discrimination in the workplace, women have come a long way within the past century, making their voices heard and forging towards the future with independence, strength, compassion, and wisdom.
South Africa’s National Women’s Day is all about appreciating and honouring all the women who have contributed to the progression towards gender equality from the past, present, and even the future, as we continue blazing a trail for the generations of women to come.
This National Women’s Day, Acorn Stairlifts celebrates all of the amazing women in the world who have made a difference, not just from their multiple contributions throughout the course of history, but through the ways in which they touch peoples’ personal lives on a daily basis as well.
Read on to learn about the history behind National Women’s Day and how you can join in on celebrating all of the wonderful women in your life and all over South Africa.
When is National Women’s Day in South Africa?
National Women’s Day in South Africa is on 9 August every year.
This year, in 2024, International Women’s Day falls on a Friday.
What is the History Behind South Africa’s National Women’s Day?
National Women's Day in South Africa, celebrated on 9 August, commemorates a pivotal moment in the nation's history—the 1956 women's march against the apartheid pass laws.
On this day, approximately 20,000 women from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds gathered at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
This protest, organised by the Federation of South African Women, was led by iconic figures such as Lilian Ngoyi, Helen Joseph, Rahima Moosa, and Sophia Williams-De Bruyn.
The march was a direct response to the oppressive pass laws, which were designed to control and restrict the movement of black South Africans under the apartheid regime.
The women delivered petitions containing over 100,000 signatures to then Prime Minister J.G. Strijdom's office, representing their united stand against the discriminatory legislation.
In a powerful display of solidarity and defiance, they stood in silence for 30 minutes before singing "Wathint' abafazi, wathint' imbokodo" ("You strike a woman, you strike a rock"), a phrase that has since symbolised the resilience and strength of South African women.
Established in 1995, National Women's Day honours this significant event and acknowledges the broader struggle of women against the injustices of apartheid.
It serves as a reminder of the critical role women played in the fight for freedom and equality and continues to celebrate their ongoing contributions to building a more just and equitable society in South Africa.
Ways to Celebrate Women on National Women’s Day
1. Support Women-Owned Businesses
One powerful way to celebrate National Women's Day is by supporting women-owned businesses. Whether it’s a local boutique, a restaurant, or an online store, your patronage helps empower women entrepreneurs and promotes economic equality. Share your experiences on social media to encourage others to do the same.
2. Attend or Organise a Community Event
Many communities host events such as marches, panel discussions, and cultural performances to honour the day. Attend these events to show your support and learn more about women's contributions and challenges.
If there aren’t any events nearby, consider organising one. For example, leading a book club focusing on women authors or arranging a film screening of women-directed movies can be both educational and inspiring.
3. Volunteer for Women’s Organisations
Numerous organisations work tirelessly to support women in various aspects of life, from health, to education, to economic empowerment. Dedicate some of your time to volunteer for these organisations.
Whether it’s mentoring young girls, helping at a women’s shelter, or providing professional skills training, your contribution can make a significant impact.
4. Educate Yourself and Others
Use this day to educate yourself about the history of women’s rights and the ongoing struggles for gender equality.
Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts that highlight women's issues. Share this knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues to raise awareness and spark conversations about gender equality and women's rights.
5. Celebrate the Women in Your Life
Take time to appreciate and celebrate the women in your personal and professional circles.
Write a heartfelt note, give a thoughtful gift, or simply spend quality time with them. Acknowledge their contributions and let them know how much they mean to you.
Small gestures of appreciation can go a long way in making someone feel valued and loved.
Get Inspired—Words of Wisdom from Women
If we’ve learned anything throughout history, it’s that when a woman talks, you should be listening.
Get inspired by the wise words of these strong, influential women who exemplify the beauty and empowerment of what it means to be a woman.
National Women’s Day Quotes
"As an African woman, I've learnt the importance of self-definition and living purposefully. It's vital that every girl determines, as early as possible, who she is and what her contribution to humanity will be."
“Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.”
“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.”
"I know for sure that African women are endlessly resilient. After what we have overcome in the past, nothing can stop us creating the future we and our country deserve. Just watch us."
“The women of today are the thoughts of their mothers and grandmothers, embodied and made alive. They are active, capable, determined and bound to win. They have one-thousand generations back of them... Millions of women dead and gone are speaking through us today.”
“Regardless of how many years we have spent in this life, we must get up and shout.”
“A strong woman understands that the gifts such as logic, decisiveness, and strength are just as feminine as intuition and emotional connection. She values and uses all of her gifts.”
"Therefore, my challenge to each of you... is that you ask yourself what you can do to make a difference. And then take that action, no matter how large or how small. For our children have a right to peace."
“Women are the people who are going to relieve us from all this oppression and depression.”
“To those who oppose us, we say, ‘Strike the woman, and you strike the rock’.”
“We should be teaching young girls to take up space. Nothing is as important as taking up space in society and cementing yourself.”
“I say, It’s the fire in my eyes, And the flash of my teeth, The swing in my waist, And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me.”
To read Maya Angelou’s full poem of “Phenomenal Woman,” click here.
To learn more about the history of women’s rights, the contributions that women have made throughout South Africa’s history, and more about the influential women themselves, check out these resources:
https://www.southafrica.net/gl/en/travel/article/history-of-women-in-south-africa
