Man, we feel like women! This month we’re celebrating all South African women, and officially on Sunday, 9 August. Remember that Monday, 10 August, is a public holiday, which means further celebration! Before you start planning your long weekend, let’s dive into where it all began…
History of Women’s Month
We commemorate this day to pay tribute to more than 20,000 women who marched to the Union Buildings against the pass legislation in 1956. After leaving petitions with more than 100,000 signatures at prime minister J.G. Strijdom’s office door, they stood outside silently for 30 minutes and then sang a protest song – Wathint’Abafazi Wathint’ imbokodo! (Now you have touched the women, you have struck a rock!)
How to Celebrate
As hard as rocks, we know today that this world would mean nothing without them. They are strong, powerful, but also loving human beings, and that’s why we reflect on women’s achievements, the problems they have faced and the critical role they continue to play in our society. They are moms, entrepreneurs, businesswomen, and leaders.
We owe an enormous amount to the women in our lives. From mothers bringing us soup when we’re sick as children, to the sisters who help us get through university with study tips, to the wives who help fight our challenges and somehow juggle both a career and a family. They never miss a beat.
Use this day to love, respect, and value them. Raise awareness about women’s struggles and honour their winnings no matter how big or small. Acknowledge their efforts in trying to calm a crying toddler, baking a new cake recipe, or giving their best to implement a new social media strategy at work. Appreciate them and say thank you for the daily activities they get to pull off even when it seems impossible, and for the simple things we take for granted.
We want to challenge you to support a woman and celebrate her womanhood – her feelings and experiences. Embrace who she is with an open mind and treat her to things she likes. Without stereotyping, take her into the heart of Johannesburg, and let her be right here in Sandton. Whether you’re planning to stick her for coffee and catching up on everything that’s been going on these last couple of months or help her search for the perfect earrings to match her fairytale wedding dress, choose to uplift her as the amazing soul she is.
Such an excellent opportunity to thank all of the beautiful, wonderful, charming women out there! Happy Women’s Day and Month, Sandton!
