Hon Speaker, on behalf of the ID we wish to express our deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Bertha Gxowa. Bertha who passed away in Johannesburg at the age of 75 on Friday, 19 November 2010, was a veteran anti-apartheid activist. She was especially known and respected as the organiser of the 1956 Women's March to the Union Buildings against the extension of passes to women. The march has become a milestone in South Africa's history books.
It was an absolute pleasure to have served alongside her as a Member of Parliament. Had Bertha been alive during the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children last year, she would undoubtedly have played an important and active role in the campaigning and awareness drive. Bertha is no longer here with us, but may her memories stay with us forever.