The enormous and unexpected turnout at Ottawa’s Women’s March on Washington on Jan. 21 has been estimated as anywhere between 6,000 and 8,000 people. This is a sign that Canadians of all ages, genders, races, and religions are willing to make themselves visible and stand against a perceived system of sexism, racism, and homophobia.
While some critics say protests and marches accomplish nothing, these events offer participants a place to express their fear, anger, and concern in a way that is distinctly visible. They also keep people from becoming complacent, and educate bystanders on issues that matter.
Ottawa’s march sends a strong feminist message, not only to the new Trump administration, but also to politicians here at home who may be contemplating following in Trump’s footsteps.
Of course, the marches aren’t short of their problems. Ottawa’s own march, larger than expected, lacked some organization. Criticisms of the global marches have pointed out a lack of intersectionality, overlooking unique problems faced by women of colour and those in the LGBTQ+ community.
But the march was still a strong first step. Now, students who believe in this work must carry on advocating beyond the weekend, by keeping informed, writing letters to elected representatives, and attending later protests.
