Hon Chairperson, hon members, and our guests, the annual commemoration of Women's Day obliges one to repeat once again the observation that this day is an opportunity not merely to celebrate the many remarkable women who have made this nation great, although they certainly deserve to be celebrated, nor is it an opportunity merely to sing the praises of the many women who have excelled in countless positions throughout our society, although they are certainly worthy of such praise: This day must be dedicated to considering where we as a society continue to fail in our constitutional obligation to gender equality.
In the same breath that we salute the women who have excelled, we must express our dismay about the women who have been oppressed, abused and murdered simply because of their gender. These incidents, such as the horrific rate of rape, remind us that our legislative and policy efforts have not yet translated into a society where all men respect and treat women as their equals. An example of how far we still need to go was seen this week when a defence attorney asked a victim during court proceedings whether she had enjoyed being raped. This happened in the Eastern Cape, where I come from, unfortunately. What we require is great public awareness of gender equality, starting with leaders' and including politicians' showing unwavering commitment to these principles. There is no excuse for leaders to stand on public platforms and make remarks about women that are derogatory.
Education is the key. As with all democratic values, it is vital that our children are taught at home and in school that women have an equal place in our society. I thank you, Chairperson. [Applause.]