August is Women’s Month, and after all the obstacles we’ve overcome during 2020, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the strength and resilience of women everywhere.

How Women’s Day Started

Women’s Day, which falls on August 9^th, is a South African holiday dedicated to honouring the sacrifices made by the nation’s brave women. The occasion commemorates a peaceful protest held in Pretoria on August 9^th 1956, when over 20,000 women marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the Urban Areas Act of 1950 amendments.

The march was a peaceful but powerful statement that helped to drive change in the country, and in 1995 the day became a national holiday.

Women’s Day Matters More than Ever

The fight for women’s equality has come a long way, but there are still many changes that need to happen. Women’s Month is a time of year that’s dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges facing so many women in South Africa, Africa and beyond. This includes issues like unequal pay, workplace discrimination and domestic violence.

Nearly 50 years since that famous march took place, Women’s Month and Women’s Day still present us with many opportunities to reflect, celebrate, and challenge ourselves to continue the struggle.

How to Celebrate Women’s Month

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and all the social distancing restrictions, there are many ways you can help to uplift women during August 2020. Here are a few suggestions:

• Donate toiletries and sanitary products to local women’s shelters
• Start an online fundraiser for a women’s charity or shelter
• Support local women-owned businesses
• Support female writers and artists
• Take time to say “thank you” to all the special women in your life

To all the hardworking, dedicated women in your family – we see you, we appreciate you and we thank you! Wishing you a very special Women’s Month celebration in 2020.