Anti-apartheid poster by The Federation of Transvaal Women (1987)

This poster is a 1987 calendar and political manifesto issued by FEDTRAW (The Federation of Transvaal Women), a key anti-apartheid organization in South Africa.

Formed in December 1984, FEDTRAW was an affiliate of the United Democratic Front (UDF). It aimed to unite women across racial and class lines to fight both gender oppression and the apartheid system.

Produced during a period of intense political resistance and a state of emergency in South Africa.

"VUKANI MAKHOSIKAZI!" (Zulu) and "TSOGANG BASADI!" (Sotho/Tswana) both translate to "Women, Arise!", a powerful call to mobilization.

The Women's Charter to the left of the poster lists specific demands for a post-apartheid society.
These include:

• Political Rights: The right to vote in a free and undivided South Africa.

• Legal Equality: The removal of laws restricting freedom of movement and the demand for equal rights regarding property and marriage.

• Socio-Economic Demands: Access to full employment, proper housing, childcare, and free compulsory education for all children.

Visual Iconography

The Figure: The central image features a woman with a raised arm and a pointing finger, a gesture of leadership, defiance, and pointing toward a future goal.

Color Palette: The use of black, green, and gold/yellow is highly significant as these are the colors associated with the liberation movement and the African National Congress (ANC), which was banned at the time.

The Calendar: Using a calendar format was a practical way to ensure the political message remained visible in homes for an entire year, serving as a constant tool for domestic conscientization.

595mm x 420mm

Mellowed with age; surface wear; minor fishmothing.

R4,500