More than 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria on August 9, 1956 to protest the apartheid regime's pass laws. When a month built to celebrate excellence slowly becomes a month built to highlight trauma, we lose the radical meaning of August 9, say the writers.
As South Africa marks National Women's Day on Sunday, August 9, and the public holiday on Monday, August 10, Cape Town is preparing to celebrate the strength, resilience and achievements of women with a vibrant calendar of events.
This year is particularly significant as it marks the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women's March, when 20,000 women united in Pretoria to protest against the extension of pass laws to women.
Seven decades later, the spirit of that march continues through events that celebrate empowerment, wellness, creativity and community.
Whether you're looking to break a sweat, indulge in a luxurious high tea, enjoy live entertainment or attend inspiring conversations, there's something for everyone this Women's Month.
