So they holiday is honoring the 20,000 women who marched in 1956 protesting against the legislation that required identification passes to be carried. The passes were required of black people over the age of 16 during apartheid when they were in white areas so one could know who they were and that they were permitted to be in that area. Without the passbook they would be arrested. National Women's day is basically saying how awesome women are and celebrating our awesomeness.
Since it's a public holiday we don't have classes. Justin, an intern at IHRE, is going back to the U.S.A for college so we are having a Goodbye Justin Braai (or in american speak: a barbeque) It went from like 2pm till dark. Lots of time outside in the sun just hanging out with people. It was a lot of fun.
Dear Julia,
ReplyDeleteI just got your blog address & have looked through what you've posted about your newest adventure. I think that you're in very reasonable circumstances and well taken of. You must be so interested in the big cultural differences, and enjoying the quirky ones. I know what you mean about the pace of things. Is there much tea taken? Masala? I wonder about the weather: it's been raining hard here. Last night the soil was washed out of my window boxes! The holiday you describe reminds that 8/26 was the date that women won the right to vote in this country. I'll be visiting with your mom and dad this coming weekend, just before their trip to see you. I love you as always, and hope you continue to write.
Aunt Kate
enjoy the braai! and many more! bbq's will never be the same when you return.
ReplyDelete-Melissa