Why is there a Women’s Day but not a Men’s Day?

Some cynics and feminists would say that the obvious answer is because the other 364 days of the year are Men’s Days!

The truth of the matter though is that Women’s Day in South Africa is not a celebration of women, per se, but rather commemorates an historic event on the 9th August 1956 when over 20 000 women marched on the Union Buildings in petition against the pass laws of the day. It honours and celebrates the strength and purpose of these women, who rallied against legislation demanding that Black South Africans carry ‘passes’ to justify their presence in any so-called White suburb or area.

The march was organized by the Federation of South African Women (FEDSAW) and led by four remarkable individuals – Helen Joseph, Lilian Ngoyi, Rahima Moosa, and Sophy Williams. The multitude, consisting of women of all races, ages, walks of life and from all over the country, demonstrated quiet defiance in their peaceful march to deliver bundles of petitions, containing some 100 000 signatures, to Prime Minister JG Strijdom’s office at the Union Buildings.

Having dropped the petitions off, the throng then stood in silence for thirty minutes, before starting to sings songs of freedom and solidarity, most famous amongst which was to become one composed specifically in honour of the march, “Wathint’ Abafazi Wathint’ imbokodo!” (Now you have touched the women, you have struck a rock).
FEDSAW’s march was deemed a victory and lauded far and wide, and in recognition of the momentous occasion and the courageous women who risked much in their quiet fortitude, the first Women’s Day was declared in 1994 and has been celebrated annually on the 9th August, since.

This day has come to celebrate much more than a single act of solidarity, however, and now more generally pays homage to the strength and resilience of women, their spirit and accomplishments, as well as highlighting women’s rights issues such as domestic abuse, rape and gender inequality. The day is marked with various activities taking place countrywide, and August is now officially Women’s month to allow for a broader application of the forum.

Come celebrate the fearlessly female in you this Women’s Day with Crystal Forum, Simply Manas Gift Emporium, and the strong and dynamic women who head up these businesses.

You are certain to find something special and uniquely feminine amongst our innovative CRYSTALP selections of well-crafted Crystal Jewellery and Crystal Accessories or in the IMPLEXIONS range of signature home décor and interior design pieces, all incorporating SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS.

View our ranges at Simply Manas gift emporium – Shop L336, Lower Level, Protea Court, Sandton City.
You can also call Simply Manas on +27 11 784 0270 or visit the website at simplymanas.com website.

Please contact Crystal Forum for more information on this article or if you would like to know more about Crystal Forum and it’s specialized ranges of Crystal Products.