A Woman's Place

The majority of this post is comprised of words, images, and sentiments provided by women that I am fortunate enough to call friends, family, and colleagues. Their experiences on Saturday have inspired this post, as well as the life I lead. Thanks to all who contributed, the world is better because you are in it.

People change. Time passes. Distance separates. Life happens. But on a day like Saturday I am reminded of all of the women who have shaped my life in one way or another. Whether, black or white, republican or democrat, gay or straight, or perhaps none of the above, I am reminded to show appreciation for all that you are as a woman. I hope that in the coming weeks, months, and years, you will find ways to celebrate the victories (both big and small) of the women in your life.

I am in awe of the struggles you have transitioned through. I know your vulnerability, your power, and your strength, without even fully knowing your story.

On Saturday we marched, or at least watched, in hopes of a brighter future for all women. After all, “it is the idea held by generations of citizens who believed that America is a constant work in progress; who believed that loving this country requires more than singing its praises or avoiding uncomfortable truths. It requires the occasional disruption, the willingness to speak out for what is right, to shake up the status quo. That’s America.” President Obama

Melanie, San Francisco

“Yesterday I was quiet as Donald Trump became president. I channeled my energy by volunteering as to allow the peaceful transfer of power. I listened as he spoke of returning the power to the people. So today, my voice joins with tens of thousands in my home of Denver and with those in the more than 600 marches all over the world. In ALL 50 states and from Argentina to Zimbabwe on every continent (even Antartica). I lend my voice to the collective to say I reject this narrative that oppresses marginalized communities, I refuse for hate speech to become the new normal and for bragging about sexual assault to be rewarded. Today was a peaceful protest and returning the power to the people means listening to us too.“

Johanna, Denver

Kelsey, Chicago

“Especially today we need to teach and show goodness, hope, and love. I am truly humbled and inspired by my students and the positive actions they took today.”

Deborah, Chicago

"'When Mexico sends its people, they're not sending their best. ... They're sending people that have lots of problems, and they're bringing those problems with us. They're bringing drugs. They're bringing crime. They're rapists.' Trump said in his announcement speech. June 2015. Like most Mexican Americans, this is a line that has been repeated in my mind over, and over and over since June 2015. "Does the American people really hate us that much? To think that we're all criminals? Have they met my grandparents?" My grandmother donated what little money/food cloths she had to the Red Cross every year and my grandfather worked 50+ hours a week until he retired at 74. They have NEVER committed a crime and my grandfather was given his first traffic violation recently for going too slow on the freeway. They have NEVER been on welfare and taught me to work hard and be breathily for every opportunity Ive been given in United States. My grandparents moved to El Paso, Texas right before they started their family 55 years ago in order to provide a safe environment and an opportunity for education for their children, a decision that made me who I am today. When Donald Trump won the election, he normalized and encouraged hate. I had visions of people harassing my grandparents and mother at a grocery store, or being told they're second class citizens. For the first time in my life, I was deathly afraid for their safety. Being told that you, your family and loved ones are nothing but trouble and a burden on the United States by a man who would later become president is one of the most painful moments of my life. However, the women's march in Denver healed at least some of that pain yesterday. I was surrounded by people that told me that I wasn't alone, and that they will stand by me and my family. For the first time in two years, I had hope. Over 2 million people around the world told me, 'we don't agree with him, we stand by you, we love you.' That man is not my president and this fight for equality continues. Progression isn't taking a four year halt and as a social worker, I will not allow the words of a man who doesn't believe that science is real to impact my self worth. I accept the challenge, and over 2 million around the world stand with me.”

Rachel, Denver

“It was honestly the most powerful experience I've ever had. So many women from around the country came together and there was zero violence. Just women ensuring each other that we were going to stick together."

Kaitlyn, D.C.

Cheers to those that got out to disrupt the status quo. I look forward to what is coming.