Womxn in dialogue
- Wits University
Students and womxn leaders from various disciplines reflect as the country celebrates Women’s Day.
The Student Transition and Persistence Unit (STPU) hosted a dialogue to mark Women’s Day observed annually in South Africa on 9 August, to commemorate the historic march of more than 20,000 women, who protested against the extension of oppressive pass laws to women. Post-democracy, this day brings into focus the various matters that impact womxn and the realisation of equality and the true advancement of women.
According to the UN Women, only 27 countries in the world have women as Heads of State and/or Government. The international body also states that at the current rate, gender equality in the highest positions of power will not be reached for another 130 years. Gender transformation remains a challenge in many areas of society, however, womxn are powering ahead and lifting each other as they rise. The Wits discussion revolved around civic engagement, unique challenges, and opportunities for women and the LGBTQIA+ community.
The panel featured Wits SRC President Bukiswa Boniswa, entrepreneur and sustainability consultant Margo Fargo, Dr Thelela Ngcetane-Vuka, a scholar in governance, international law, and leadership at the Wits School of Governance, and Tish Geddes, the coordinator of Wits' Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics Advocacy Programme. The discussion was facilitated by Dr Zena Richards, manager at the STPU within the Student Affairs Division.