1923 – Founding of the African National Congress Women's League

On May 15, 1923, South African women organized under the African National Congress (ANC) to form what would later become the ANC Women’s League. Though it would not be formally established until 1948, this initial gathering laid the foundation for Black women’s political activism in South Africa. These women organized to protest discriminatory pass laws, economic marginalization, and systemic racism. Over time, the ANC Women’s League became a powerful force in the anti-apartheid movement, with members like Albertina Sisulu and Winnie Mandela becoming iconic figures. The early meetings in 1923 demonstrated the resilience and foresight of Black women who recognized that racial freedom could not be achieved without gender justice. Their legacy continues in the ongoing struggles for equality in South Africa today.