Society - The African National Congress salutes women of the world on the occasion of the International Women's Day today, 8 March 2013. We join the United Nations on the historic celebration that derives from successes that marked women activism the world over.
We bow our heads to the progressive women of the world for having consistently fought to reclaim their position in society. It is as a result of many years of hard fought battles, some of whom claimed lives, that women have registered a number of victories.
The ANC pays tribute to the heroic women of South Africa who have taken their position alongside women of the world for relentless and consistent struggles. The legacy of their struggle has ensured that society is more equal, more fair and women enjoy rights as citizens of the civilized world. It is as a result of these struggles that women are increasingly visible in the economy, governance and other spheres of leadership.
It is disheartening that as we celebrate the noble cause of gender parity we are still confronted by the scourge of violent crimes against women and children. The historical objective of the ANC has been the creation of a non-sexist, non-racial, equal and democratic South Africa. The ANC will spare neither strength nor effort in confronting and ultimately defeating this scourge. To this end we call on our communities and our men folk in particular to take a stand against the recurring violence and rape that seek to dehumanise women. The ANC believes that no one can be truly free unless our women are free. Similarly, no man can truly regard himself as a real man until he stands up and defends the rights of a woman.
African National Congress/08/03/2013