Women have been marching together all over the world for decades to show solidarity and raise awareness of women’s issues. On Saturday, January 20, complete with t-shirts, home-made signs and the passion for change, more than 125 people united for the second annual Women’s March Muskoka.
Although the initial ‘fire’ behind the march was to protest against the actions of U.S. President Donald Trump, it has now become about various women’s issues. Women’s March Muskoka was one of approximately 300 marches globally on this day.
“When we organized the march last year there were 25 women that walked. This year when I noticed that one hadn’t been organized yet I immediately made a Facebook status to see if anyone wanted to join me,” said Jan Jacklin. That was when Jacklin, Nancy Osborne and Michelle Emson decided to organize the second annual Women’s March Muskoka. What started off as just a Facebook group turned to much more when Michelle Emson, LGBTQ+ advocate and human rights activist, got involved.
“It ate away at me and I felt Muskoka needed more as we are the only march between Sudbury and Toronto. So I decided to launch an entire campaign including a Facebook page, Instagram and website. Here we are just six days later!” said Emson. “I wanted the march to be totally inclusive to everyone.”
The theme for this year’s march was “Look Back, March Forward” which is a celebration of women’s rights achievements as well as a pledge to continue resistance in 2018.
Trump has mobilized people like me to keep this movement going and it’s such a passion of mine seeing women step into their power. I want to see women have a presence that us undeniable and a voice that resonates.
Nancy Osborne
Beginning at Huntsville Place Mall, the marchers made their way across King William Street to River Mill Park then looped back and returned to the mall.
Although led by women, the march was open to children, partners and families in order to bring together the Muskoka community and show support and solidarity. While last year’s Muskoka Women’s March had just a handful of men, this year they comprised a third of attendees.
“I am marching to share this incredible energy with my son,” said Emily Blackman. “I think it’s important to model this behaviour to your kids. It is also a cause very near and dear to my heart.”
“I was delighted to receive the invitation by Michelle to attend, it’s so important to stand together,” said MP Tony Clement. “In the Huntsville community, we have a severe problem with sexual assault cases being dropped so awareness needs to be raised for that.”
With attendance being quadrupled from the previous year, the excitement for next year has already begun and plans are underway for Women’s March 2019.
“I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out and the amazing turn out. I have already spoken with the Business Improvement Association (BIA), YWCA and Mayor Scott Aitchison who have all committed to next year’s march,” said Emson.
Follow the local march website to find out more about what is in store for next year.
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