OWN CORRESPONDENT
An inspiring display of political strength, female solidarity and inner fortitude, the march on August 9, 1956 was both a reminder of the great women who helped mould South Africa and the trailblazing women who continue to lead the country forward.
WIZO wholeheartedly supports this day and recognises the vital role women play in society. The founders of WIZO were like a mirror image of the South African struggle heroes. Three women, Rebecca Sieff, Vera Weizmann and Romana Goodman, wives of prominent Zionists and powerful personalities in their own right, took the first steps in improving conditions for women in Israel.
On arriving there, they were appalled at the conditions in which they found the women and children – malnourishment, neglect and exhaustion were commonplace.
So began the long road in the upliftment of women, ensuring that women have economic, political and personal rights in Israel today.
During this month and next, WIZO South Africa hosts their annual Rebecca Sieff Awards. At these awards, it has the pleasure to honour women who have worked tirelessly for over 40 years, and continue to work to advance the status of women in Israel. By contributing to many projects in Israel, WIZO continually enables women and children to reach their full potential.
The silent protest of the four women at the IEC results centre recently demonstrates tremendous courage, similar to that displayed by the Jewish community in South Africa, when women’s rights are at stake, for example, the recent kol isha issue and the right of women to obtain a get.
In the 21st century there are so many countries where women have no rights. We salute the women in South Africa and Israel who continue to ensure a brighter future for all women.
