As the Women’s March on Washington approaches, organizers have outlined a list of demands on its official platform, such as accountability for police brutality, giving women free choice over their bodies, and the right to a living wage. They are far from just the “women’s issues” alone, as the Women’s March has turned into a powerful movement for any American dissatisfied with the current political climate.
In a series of videos produced by the Women’s March on Washington NYC Chapter, women explain what these agendas mean to them.
The reasons are as diverse as the participants. “My mom’s family is undocumented,” said Stephanie, a Mexican-American woman.
“She’s undocumented as well. I grew up knowing, my whole life I grew up being aware that one day my mom could not be here anymore.”
“I marched in 1978 for the ERA, and that was my first march. And I cannot believe that 40 years later, we’re still having to do this,” said Julia, echoing the statements of many women who have been involved in social justice for decades.
Using the #WhyIMarch hashtag, other participants and supporters have been tweeting about the importance of the marches happening around the country, and what inspired them to participate.
Though reasons may vary, nearly all of them—from protecting the environment to standing up for immigrant rights—have been threatened by members of the incoming presidential administration. And if Facebook RSVPs are to be believed, millions of people will be marching in cities across the country on Saturday, in support of these reasons and more.