By Emma Kelly

“Some women fear the fire, some women simply become it…” – R.H. Sin

The 2017 Women’s March in Washington, D.C. was the largest demonstration in U.S. history. As unfathomable as it sounds, more than 4 million people marched across the country, according to the Washington Post. This didn’t include sister marches all over the world.

Of the many destinations to choose, I opted to experience this year’s march at the White House. The manor – created as a home for the first citizen of the United States – seemed to be the best place to experience the thoughts and feelings of other U.S. citizens. The Metro was packed with protestors covered in glitter and pink knitted beanie hats with ears, all relishing in the fact that on this day they can openly voice their disapproval of the treatment of women.

Among the myriad of hot pink, deep red, bright yellow and green signs, were women and men, many of whom protested the 45th President of the United States and the current political climate. Signs of protest, objection, disapproval and declaration – on top of what is the norm in Washington, D.C. these days – took up the space above heads of dyed pink and purple hair.

Surrounded by incredible, capable, intelligent women all with the same goal – to reach equality – was one of the most humbling experiences of my life. I realized that we are all the same; we all have wants and needs, and when we work together we can make an impact.

“When women support each other, incredible things happen.”

As I wandered over to the Lincoln Memorial, men and women swarmed the streets, all gracious and trying their best to avoid running into others. There is a reason why they call it a march, not a protest. People voiced their opinions everywhere – with signs, shirts, with laugher filling the air, with words to the officials hiding in the buildings around us. There were no opposing sides against the countless people, they were just one group with a fire in their hearts, rallying against the political cancer that has taken over the county.  

The tension was palpable, the excitement of the promises to come, the strength in the unity, the happiness of the freedom of expression – together creating what I can only call the feeling of tranquility in the eye of a hurricane.

“We are the granddaughters of witches you weren’t able to burn.” – Tish Thawer

It didn’t matter about tomorrow, or about yesterday; it was all about now and using the advantage of the combined voice of the marchers. Hopefully our reach made it around the world, and judging by the response demonstrators have received, it did.

“As for my girls, I’ll raise them to think they breathe fire.” There is no doubt that after this day, the women of the United States breathe nothing but fire.

“I will fight for those who cannot fight for themselves.” – Wonder Woman