9 Unforgettable Moments from South Africa’s Anti-Apartheid Struggle

Fredrick Ngugi April 06, 2017

2. Women’s March (1956)

Women’s March against the Pass Law

Women’s March against the Pass Law. Photo credit: African Feminist Forum

The Women’s March against the Pass Laws on August 9, 1956, is regarded as one of the largest demonstrations to have ever been held in South Africa. On that day, at least 20,000 women of all races marched to Pretoria’s Union Buildings to present a petition against the carrying of passes by women to the then-Prime Minister J. G. Strijdom. The march, which was organized by the Federation of South African Women, is celebrated as Women’s Day on August 9th every year.

Last Edited by:Abena Agyeman-Fisher Updated: April 6, 2017

Conversations

Must Read

Connect with us

Join our Mailing List to Receive Updates