By HAYLEY COHEN
Golda Meir’s tenure as Prime Minister of Israel (1969–1974) came just before a pivotal moment for women worldwide. Less than a year after she stepped down, the United Nations officially began observing International Women’s Day on 8th March 1975, recognising the global movement for women’s rights and equality.
Golda Meir never sought to be known as a feminist. Instead, she insisted on being regarded simply as Prime Minister rather than as a “female prime minister.” Yet her career demonstrated precisely what the world was beginning to celebrate: that women could lead nations, shape history, and govern with strength, wisdom, and conviction. Although she never publicly commented on the United Nations’ first official International Women’s Day in 1975, her life had already become a powerful example of its ideals. She believed women should simply be given the opportunity to lead—and then be judged by the same standards as everyone else.
Golda Meir’s example reminds us that the advancement of women is not only about breaking barriers at the highest levels of leadership, but also about recognising the countless ways women strengthen their communities through courage, service, and commitment every day.
While International Women’s Day celebrates the global advancement of women’s rights and achievements, South Africa’s National Women’s Day commemorates the courage of the more than 20,000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9th August 1956 in protest against apartheid pass laws. Though separated by geography and history, these occasions share a common message: women possess the courage and determination to shape the future.
Those same qualities continue to shape communities today—not only in government and public life, but also through the often unseen work of women who lead, volunteer, advocate, and inspire others.
At the South African Zionist Federation Cape Council, our women continue that tradition every day. Whether serving in leadership roles, advocating outside the High Court, standing on the Sea Point Promenade in solidarity with Israel, volunteering their time, or quietly strengthening our community behind the scenes, they lead with courage, conviction, and purpose.
Tamara Davidson captured the spirit of Women’s Day when she said, “Investing in women—from young to old—is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen our entire society.”
One respondent reflected, “I believe women often bring a nurturing and compassionate perspective to advocacy and community work,” choosing to lead by listening, showing empathy, and building understanding.
Yvette Rosenberg highlighted another quality that many women bring to community life: “Women are generally do-ers! We roll up our sleeves and get the job done.”
Golda Meir’s legacy reminds us that leadership is not defined by gender but by character, courage, and a willingness to serve. This Women’s Day we celebrate the remarkable women in our own community who continue to strengthen Jewish life, stand proudly with Israel, and inspire the generations that follow.
Thoughts on Women’s Day from local Jewish women
TAMARA: “My involvement in community building stems from being a mother specifically, more so than just being a woman. I want my children, my daughter in particular, to see that participation and service with integrity and vision in life is key -we need to show up for one another – and break some barriers in order to leave a world and a community that is stronger and better for our having played a small part in it.”
JESSICA: “I believe women often bring a nurturing and compassionate perspective to advocacy and community work. I try to be a listener, a mediator and someone who leads with empathy. I believe that even the smallest contributions can make a difference.”
