Join Lulama on an unforgettable journey to the historic Women’s March of 1956.

As she travels with her mother and Auntie Lindiwe to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Lulama begins to understand the unfair pass laws that made life difficult for Black families, especially Black women. But she also discovers something even more powerful: when brave people stand together, they can change history. Inspired by the true story of the 20 000 women who marched peacefully for justice on 9 August 1956, this beautifully told story celebrates courage, hope and the strength of unity.

Today, in South Africa, a public holiday is celebrated honouring this march and streets are named after its four remarkable leaders. At the Union Buildings, the Imbokodo Monument stands as a lasting tribute. When visitors whisper into it in any of South Africa’s 11 official languages, the message still echoes today: “Women are as strong as a rock.” May Lulama’s story inspire every child to be brave, stand up for what is right, and discover that they, too, can be a rock.

ABOUT THE SOPHIE AND HENRY DE BRUYN FOUNDATION

The Sophie and Henry De Bruyn Foundation preserves and celebrates the remarkable legacy of lifelong struggle activists Sophie and Henry De Bruyn, whose shared commitment to justice, equality, human dignity and international solidarity spans close to eight decades. Their life’s work both in South Africa and in forced exile, reflects humble servant leadership and an unwavering dedication to gender equity, human rights, social justice, and the struggle against apartheid.

Their legacy represents not only their own contributions but also the
collective efforts of countless South Africans who fought for freedom and democracy. Through initiatives such as this children’s book, published to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Women’s March, the Foundation seeks to inspire new generations to know their history, learn from the past, and honour the important values of Unity, Dignity, Integrity and Freedom in their daily lives.