Living History.
Yesterday, I joined hundreds of thousands of women, men, and children in the streets of Washington, D.C. to participate in the Women's March on Washington. Heading out with two friends, we attempted to take the metro downtown. After three trains arrived and departed, too filled with people to accommodate more than a few additional riders, we headed back above ground and walked the three-ish miles to the National Mall. The sky was overcast; the air was brisk, and the energy was electric.
The sidewalks were filled with groups of women, families, and friends--many wearing pink hats and carrying signs, banners, and flags. People were smiling, laughing, taking photos, and exuding excitement and passion for the day ahead. As we approached the Mall from behind the Washington Monument, the crowd continued to swell. Arriving a little after 10:30 am, the program of speakers was already under way. We were directed around the Mall to a viewing area on Independence Avenue. The street was packed, filling in behind us almost immediately.
I will not attempt to summarize the impassioned words of the speakers I heard, because their speeches should be read in their entirety by anyone who wishes to understand the fire behind this beautiful movement. And while I do not agree with every position I heard or sign that I saw, such an utterly massive demonstration of love, compassion, and unity is humbling and inspiring. One of my favorite signs I saw yesterday read: "Love and compassion should not follow party lines." I saw countless signs that encouraged love--love for sisterhood, love for diversity, love for all.
Though there were many, one poignant moment made me realize how much more I could be doing as a citizen of this Nation. Michael Moore encouraged the crowd to repeat the phone number for U.S. House switchboard operator: (202) 225-3121. Callers need only to provide their ZIP code to person who answers that phone to be connected to their representatives. Visiting http://www.house.gov/representatives/find/ also provides multiple resources for contacting elected Representatives. I realized in that moment that I need to spend more of my time researching, reading, and discussing the issues and policies facing my representatives today, so that I can confidently call and write to them about my stance.
To me, showing up and speaking out to defend LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL is what democracy looks like. And I pledge to do that.
