More than 30,000 people participated in the Women’s March on Jan. 18 in Washington, D.C. — one of 250 marches taking place nationwide.
The event began in 2017 as a protest against then newly inaugurated President Trump, as well as policies participants say are detrimental to women, people of color, immigrants and other vulnerable groups.
Demonstrators in the nation’s capital came from all over the country to participate, including from South Florida, with many saying the fact that 2020 is an election year made it particularly important to be involved. In Miami Gardens, hundreds turned out for South Florida’s version.
Miami resident Kat Guevara said she has attended the event in the nation’s capital every year.
“We made signs in Florida, we sent them up and I’m here again today!” said Guevara. “The first [march] was amazing. Now it’s across the country so, it’s good. I’m glad all the women come together and stand for issues and for our rights. For all of us.”
The route included the area around the White House and downtown Washington, with thousands braving freezing rain and low temperatures. Despite the name, plenty of men and children came out in support.
Ken Kuchta lives in Washington and said he came out to support women.
“I believe in women’s rights. I believe that there should be full equality, women should be paid equally. I believe women’s choice should be protected,” he said. “I’m a gay man and I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for women being my friend, supporting me and helping me believe in myself.”
The demonstration this year focused on three issues: abortion rights, immigration and climate change.
Counter-protesters were also present, including a group calling itself “Created Equal” that seeks to change abortion laws in the United States.
“We want to see abortion completely ended. We want to see it completely illegal in America. We want people to change their minds on abortion so that they are against it,” said Lexie Hall.
The march in Washington was the largest in the country. March organizers said this is “only the beginning” of a busy year of activism leading up to the November presidential election.
