International Women’s Day Statement from SADTU
As the world marks International Women’s Day on March 8th, under the theme “Accelerate Action,” the South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fighting for gender equality for women and girls. This theme emphasizes the importance of recognizing strategies and tools that drive women’s progress in education, employment, and leadership. It calls for collective efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals to dismantle barriers and foster an environment of equal opportunities for women.
We understand that the struggle for gender equality is deeply intertwined with the broader fight against all forms of oppression and exploitation. The historical material conditions that have perpetuated gender inequality must be confronted and transformed through collective action and solidarity.
As a union in a teaching profession dominated by women, SADTU has tirelessly fought to ensure equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender. While we celebrate this victory, we acknowledge that more males continue to hold principal and senior positions than females. Despite more girls writing Matriculation exams and obtaining quality passes than boys, this success is not reflected in the workplace, where men continue to hold higher-paying positions. Policies designed to help women climb the professional ladder are often undermined by patriarchy, gender stereotypes, and prejudice.
Another significant challenge facing women and girls is gender-based violence, an assault on human dignity with dire effects on overall well-being. Despite various laws enacted to protect women and children, this scourge continues at an alarming rate, with conviction rates for crimes against women and children remaining low compared to the number of cases reported. Gender-based violence is still prevalent in workplaces, and although South Africa ratified the ILO Convention 190, which ensures the right to a world of work free from violence and harassment, it has not become a living document in many workplaces. In line with this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” we call on employers to incorporate this Convention into policies related to harassment and gender-based violence.
As a union in the education sphere, we fully believe in the power of education to empower and shape minds. We commit to accelerating our call for a curriculum that promotes respect, human dignity, justice, and equality. This will go a long way towards changing gender stereotypes and patriarchal norms that hold back the advancement of women.
Let us draw inspiration from the revolutionary women who have paved the way before us, and let us continue to challenge the status quo, advocate for equitable policies, and build a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality. Together, we can create a world where women’s rights are recognized, respected, and celebrated every day.
As Malala Yousafzai once said, “There are two powers in the world; one is the sword, and the other is the pen. There is a third power stronger than both, that of women”.
Let us harness this power to drive change and accelerate action for a just and equitable society.
Happy International Women’s Day!
ISSUED BY: SADTU Secretariat
CONTACT: General Secretary, Dr Mugwena Maluleke: 082 783 2968
Deputy General Secretary, Nkosana Dolopi: 082 709 5651
Media Officer, Nomusa Cembi: 082 719 5157