ASHERVILLE – Women were urged to draw strength from the courage of those who marched against apartheid 70 years ago during a National Women’s Day commemoration held at the Moving Gospel Church in Asherville on August 9.
The event marked the 70th anniversary of the historic 1956 Women’s March, when about 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against apartheid pass laws.
Held under the theme “Empowered Women Empower the Nation,” the commemoration honoured the sacrifice and determination of the women who stood together in 1956, and sent a powerful message to the apartheid government that enough was enough.
Organisers hosted a mini concert to commemorate the historic march, with music and dance forming part of the programme.
Speaking at the event, Belinda Swartz-Botha, coordinator of the “It Starts With Me!” project, said the women of 1956 had marched without weapons.
“They carried no weapons, only petitions, courage and unity. Today the baton is in our hands. Let us honour them not just with songs but by taking that same courage into our homes, our schools and our streets. They fought for freedom; our fight is for dignity,” she said, quoting Sophie De Bruyn.
Swartz-Botha encouraged women to “pick up the baton”, move forward and stand up for their rights and those of their children.
She urged women not to remain in a position of mourning, but to take action and use their voices to build stronger families and communities.
The programme also showcased the talents of local children, with music and dance performances. Mothers participated in spiritual dances, while others demonstrated aspects of the historic 1956 march to the Union Buildings.
The commemoration also highlighted the importance of developing skills within the community.
Dr H.J. Solomon handed certificates to candidates who completed a Basic Trauma Counselling workshop held at Reyneveld Primary School for teachers and parents. The participants came from Robert Sobukwe Town.
Solomon is a former Moral Regeneration Movement District Chairperson for the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Municipality and a professional life, career and business coach.
The event served as a reminder that the legacy of the women of 1956 extends beyond remembrance, with today’s generation called upon to continue the struggle for dignity, rights and empowered communities.
