Today is Women’s Day in South Africa. This day commemorates the march in 1956 of approximately 20,000 women of all races to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. The march petitioned the country’s pass laws that required South Africans who were defined as “black” under the Population Registration Act to carry an internal ‘pass’ (passport) that served to maintain population segregation, control urbanisation and manage migrant labour during the apartheid era.
The march was organised by the Federation of South African Women, who famously challenged the idea that ‘a woman’s place is in the kitchen’, declaring it instead to be ‘everywhere’.
At Londolozi we honor the past actions of these women in our countries history and take each new day to celebrate the women that are around us and stand at the center of creation at Londolozi. As Diane Mariechild says:
“A women is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.”
As such here are ten incredible examples of how women create a better world for us all…
Creation through Tradition and Heritage
Creation through Love
Creation through Sharing
Creation through Flavour
Creation through Conversation
Creation through Growing
Creation through Moments
Creation through Dance
Creation through Guiding
Creation through Education
And lastly on Women’s Day we also acknowledge all the men who have played their part in the creation of space for women.
Happy Women’s Day to you and lets celebrate all that is creation.
Women in South Africa has come a long way since the 50’s. It makes me proud to live in this beautiful we call home. Great feel good blog.
Your words are a reminder of how far we’ve come and yet, for so many women , the path to creation and freedom is paved with rocks and thorns, difficult to navigate when you’ve no shoes. So in celebration of Women’s Day, I continue to hope for freedom and equality for all human beings.
“Now you understand just why my head’s not bowed. I don’t shout or jump about or talk too loud. When you see me passing it ought to make you proud…..Phenomenal woman, that’s me.” Maya Angelou Saluting the women of South Africa and their victorious journey forward. Carry on …..
A special blog, Rich. I did not know about the 1956 march and the brave women who participated back then. Today’s Londolozi women are inspiring and you’ve honored them beautifully!
You’ve hit the nail on the head with this beautiful piece. Thank you for not focusing on the idea that women were put on earth to bear children. Not all of us have done that but have managed to excel in other ways, as you have noted. Lastly, bravissimo to you for acknowledging the men who have helped make our world happen. We couldn’t do it without you!
Aloha to all the amazing women at Londolozi. You bring brightness into the world every day.
Thanks Rich, the ten photos you have chosen are beautiful. I join you in giving thanks to the amazing women who (sometimes in spite of very difficult circumstances) continue to find the space to share their amazing vision and leadership.
Beautiful images!