The Free State government has recently celebrated Women’s Month with women in Matjhabeng. The Celebrations held under the theme “Celebrating Women of Fortitude like Albertina Sisulu” was held in Ferdi Meyer Hall, Welkom.
Speaking during the celebrations, the Free State MEC for Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation; Mathabo Leeto encouraged women to stand up and grab opportunities which are now available to them, saying women are equally capable as men.
She however spoke against oppression and violence experienced by women.
We are faced with the triple oppression of poverty, inequality and unemployment, we are always required to go the extra mile as women.
Leeto furthermore reminded the Women at the celebrations to tell their own struggle history lest it be forgotten.
There was a women’s march led by Charlotte Maxeke in 1913 which was against oppression. It might have not attracted the numbers that the 1956 to Union Buildings did, but it was very important.
While acknowledging the women’s role in the struggle the MEC lamented that women are not enjoying the fruits of freedom, saying women are being raped and murdered on a daily basis.