The SAHRC duly honours the spirit of resilience and courage shown by the women of 1956 to march to the then apartheid headquarters, the union buildings, to protest against the unjust pass laws.  The Commission salutes women for their tireless effort to make South Africa a better place for all, for nurturing children and their communities; and for flying the South African flag high in their small communities, corporate settings, and sports activities.

While noting efforts and interventions being made by all role players to protect the rights of women, it is concerning that women continue to be at the mercy of a society that is not conducive to them. Horrific crimes such as gender-based violence, rape and murder continue to affect women daily. Crime statistics reveal that the murder rate for women has increased from 10 murders per 100,000 women in 2021 to 13 per 100,000 in 2023. It is also alarming that statistics further reveal that one in five women in relationships have experienced physical violence by a partner and many more have suffered other forms of violence by men they know and strangers.

As such, the Commissioners and staff will wear black every Thursdays to honour victims and empower women to assert their rights. Thursday in Black is a global campaign aimed at creating ways in which individuals can challenge attitudes and change behaviour to end gender-based violence. The SAHRC encourages South Africans from all walks of life, other Chapter 9 institutions, civil society, NGOs and Government to use this month to reflect on their roles in ensuring an end to the scourge of violence against women.

The Commission in line with its mandate to promote and protect human rights will embark on a number of activities to empower and capacitate women on their rights and how to claim them when they are violated.

For further information contact Wisani Baloyi, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 081 016 8308