It’s hard to believe it’s already been a year since Trump took office—even though it feels like we’ve all aged at least 20 years, judging by our collective exhaustion and the gray hairs I’ve suddenly developed. In 2017, an estimated 3.7 million women, femmes, and allies alike kicked off the year with the Women’s March, moving into the Trump era with the collective resistance that set the tone for the following 12 months.
But if we’ve learned anything from this year, it’s that the work is far from over. This time, it’s going to take a lot more than good intentions and benevolent pink pussy hat-making (white women, put your needles down) to make a difference. From women’s rights, sexual assault, LGBTQ protections, and immigrant rights to fighting against white supremacy, xenophobia, racism, and gun violence, there’s more to march for now than there was at the beginning of 2017. Who knew! (Well, maybe people of color, trans people, and families of gun violence victims knew.)
On Jan. 21, 2018, we’re marching again. Here’s everything you need to know about how you can get involved and make a difference in the 2018 Women’s March.
Women’s March 2018: Where, when, and how to get involved
Where do I go and at what time?
The official women’s march anniversary event will be held in Las Vegas at the Sam Boyd Stadium at 10am. According to the Women’s March website, this years’ “Power to the Polls” event will both commemorate the first march and focus on voter registration and mobilization, public policy, and voter education. You can register for the Las Vegas event for free on the Power to the Polls site. Vegas isn’t a location chosen for convenience—it’s a hub for building a strong progressive voter base.
Nevada has recent experience with some of the most pressing issues facing women in our nation today, from gun violence to politicians accused of sexual assault. As a swing-state that will shape the Senate in 2018 and as home to a strong activist network, Nevada is the perfect place to commemorate the Women’s March and continue building our electoral power.
If you aren’t keen on heading to Nevada, there will be more than 600 sister events and anniversary marches taking place on Saturday, Jan. 20. Check the event’s searchable directory which outlines each event by zip code—or country, if you don’t live in the U.S.
https://www.facebook.com/womensmarchonwash/videos/1791431670870104/
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What should I bring?
With every major protest, march, or demonstration, it’s important to be prepared. You’re signing on for several hours outdoors, often on your feet, moving in potentially massive crowds without much space to exit quickly. Be sure to bring a compact bag with plenty of water, a portable device charger, your phone, ID, and cash on hand. If you know you’ll be out for hours at a time, pack snacks that will keep you going and make sure not to forget any medications you may need.
Comfortable shoes are a must, and layered clothing is most useful to keep you adequately protected in case temperatures change. As a precaution, pack a small bandana or scarf that could easily be tied to your face if, in the rare chance, tear gas is used. You can also use a bandana as an identifying marker or towel in emergency situations. The march is a peaceful protest, but if we’ve learned anything this year, it’s that you need to be prepared.
Last year, creative and vibrant Women’s March signs flooded the National Mall and streets all over the world. Whether or not you choose to project the same message as you did last year, make your sign big, bright, and honest.
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How to participate without going to the march
If you can’t make it out to the march this weekend, there are countless other ways to be an active participant. If you’re able, make a donation of any size to the Power to the Polls event or the Women’s March organization via the registration website, or preorder Together We Rise, the commemorative 2017 Women’s March book.
Proceeds from donations or book purchases will go toward grassroots, women-led organizations like The Gathering for Justice, SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective, and Indigenous Women Rise.
Editor’s note: This article is regularly updated for relevance.