Women’s March on Washington—Warmth and purpose trump anger

Young Women's March participant blows a "protest" whistle. Photo by Trish Prewitt
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From the time two of my three sisters, my husband and I nudged our way into a very crowded Metro car (several passed through too packed for new riders) to the Women’s March on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., to the bus ride home in the late afternoon, we encountered no “disruptors” or angry protestors, only warm, convivial women and men expressing their particular view of the post-election world and the work that needs to be done. The children were charming and the babies didn’t cry.

Even those with a “not my president” bent expressed their feelings with a sense of humor. One sign read: “You’re orange, you’re gross, and you lost the popular vote.” Others said, “I want a leader, not a creepy Tweeter,” And “You can’t comb over misogyny.”

The issues ran the gamut from healthcare, reproductive rights, equality, and education, and themes focused on human dignity, respect for others, self-determination and expression, and kindness. One of the many male protesters called out: “Please tell me how to be a better feminist!” in response to a sign that said: “Ask me how to be a better feminist.”

Echoes of past protests were evident—one sign read: “We shall overcomb.” Between the teeth of comb in the poster drawing were the words sexism, racism, fear, hatred, xenophobia and divisiveness. One of favorites was “I can’t believe I still have to protest this f­_ _ king sh _ t."

The other striking feature of the protest messages was the emphasis on taking action. Signs read, “We’re not going away”, and “Don’t mourn, organize.”

The sister who couldn’t make it to Washington marched in Lexington, KY, one of the nearly 700 Sister Marches around the U.S. and the world. She sent an email saying, “It was such a heartfelt protest, not angry or belligerent. It gives me hope!” Sallie Prewitt took the photos below from the Lexington, KY, Sister March. If you went to a march in your community, please add your photos in the comments! Thanks!