Liz Abrahams
Elizabeth Adriana Abrahams (19 September 1925 โ 17 December 2008)
Early life
Elizabeth "Nanna" Abrahams was born into a working-class
Political activity
The frequent periods of unemployment associated with life as a seasonal labourer contributed to Abrahams's increasing awareness of the poor conditions endured by the workers, and especially by women. A Food and Canning Workers Union (FCWU) was established in 1941;
Abrahams was in 1956 elected General Secretary of FCWU, a position she held until 1964. Her leadership was characterised by a strong commitment to the union and an unwavering support for the anti-apartheid movement, which eventually led her to join the
Marriage and family
The life of a political activist is never easy.[citation needed] Often, activists encounter opposition from family and friends alike. Liz did not find much support from her family and husband, mostly because they lacked the understanding and insight into her political activities.[citation needed] Although she never had children, Liz "Nanna" was a very warm and affectionate person who treated her nephews, nieces and the children from the community as her own.[citation needed] Despite the lack of support at home, she remained dedicated to her duties as a union leader.[citation needed]
Retirement
Liz continued helping the Food and Allied Workers Union (FAWU) with the organisation of farm workers in the Nooder Paarl and Pniel branches.[6] In 1990 she was elected the interim chairman of the Paarl ANC branch. Other leadership positions followed as she was vice-chairlady of the ANC's Women's League and a member of the Communist Party. Five years later she became a member of the first democratically elected South African Parliament. "Nanna" Liz Abrahams died peacefully on 17 December 2008 aged 83, surrounded by family and friends.
References
- ISBN 0-620-34984-0.
- ^ FAWU tributes (2008)[2]. Liz Abrahams. Retrieved 22 October 2010.
- ^ Parker, Cassandra (1992) [3][permanent dead link], Interviews with Liz Abrahams and Elizabeth Mafekeng in Paarl. Courtesy Wecheselmann/Mayibuye Centre, University of the Western Cape.
- ^ Berger, Iris (1990). [4][permanent dead link], South African Canning Workers 1940-1960. Gender Society:Sage Publications, Vol4 (3):pp398-420.
- ^ Sibeko, Archie (1996). [5][permanent dead link]. Indicator Press, Durban.
- ^ Barbara, MacLean (2004). [6][permanent dead link], in Strike a Woman. Strike a Rock: Fighting for Freedom in South Africa. Trenton, N.J.: Africa World Press.