1963 – Kenyan Women Protest Colonial Oppression

On May 17, 1963, a large protest led by Kenyan women took place in Nairobi against the continued imprisonment of political activists under British colonial rule. The demonstration was part of a broader grassroots movement that helped usher in Kenya’s independence later that year. These courageous women, many of whom were associated with the Mau Mau resistance, played a crucial yet often overlooked role in the decolonization process. Their protest brought international attention to the gendered dimensions of colonial violence and underscored the importance of women in liberation struggles. May 17 stands as a significant day in Black international history, showcasing the intersection of gender and anti-colonial activism. The demonstration also highlighted the vital role African women have played in the fight for freedom, justice, and nationhood.