New Delhi: On August 9, we honour the strength, courage, and perseverance of South African women by celebrating National Women’s Day. While women have endured centuries of discrimination, each victory brings us closer to full equality. It’s a time to honour the many ways women have improved society throughout the world and to celebrate their accomplishments.

History

Women’s Day was first celebrated in the United States in 1908, in both Chicago, Illinois, and New York City.

Women’s liberties have been eroded over the globe, but South African women, particularly those living during socialism, have pushed for more independence. Under these statutes, discrimination against women, especially black women, was rampant.

More than 20,000 women of all races marched for equality and human rights on August 9, 1956, in Pretoria, South Africa, to protest the Apartheid government’s harsh policies. During the march, participants silently protested for 30 minutes and carried 14,000 petitions to government offices.

Almost 20 years later, in 1975, the United Nations officially recognised the importance of commemorating women and advocating for their rights by proclaiming the inaugural Women’s Day. Promoting equality for women, peace was endorsed by the UN General Assembly in 1977 and then Women’s Day started being celebrated internationally in March.

Later, again after almost four decades had passed since the Women’s March on Pretoria, South Africa first recognised National Women’s Day in 1995. On August 9th, a throwback to the original march in 1956, people here commemorate the day.

Significance

Parenthood, domestic abuse, sexual harassment on the job, uneven pay, and education for all girls are just a few of the many challenges that women still face, and they are all highlighted on National Women’s Day. It’s an opportunity to advocate for gender parity and women’s empowerment.

The significance of this day lies in the message it sends about the value of education and the equal right of women to pursue it as a means of economic independence. Therefore, today is a significant day to honour women everywhere, including our moms, daughters, sisters, and all the women around the globe.