Women’s March on London: Experiencing the demonstration
Over 100,000 people attended the Women’s March in London on Saturday 21st January and I have to admit I was somewhat daunted by the prospect of going to my first protest, on such a contentious issue, with so many people expected to attend.
I was worried there would be fights or riots or worse. I had never been to a protest or march before. I had never really felt strongly enough or taken enough interest in issues up until that point.
Despite my concerns, the passion I felt about wanting to fight the normalisation of a man like Trump and his behaviour towards women, certain religious groups and minorities, outweighed any doubts in my mind – I had to go.
I had never really felt strongly enough or taken enough interest in issues up until that point
Thankfully, my worries about the march were not realised. From the train journey down to London to the dancing to the DJ with the portable decks at the end with other marchers in Trafalgar square, there was an overwhelming feeling of love, peace and cohesiveness.
We were all there to support those who needed it and come together for something we believed in – and this cannot be described as anything other than beautiful.
I was surprised yet reassured to witness a sea of women, men and children of all different races and religions marching together through the streets of London with their placards. It was clear that this was not an angry protest about demonising males. This was a quiet march, with occasional cheers, that reflected the feelings of those who had joined – no matter who they were.
We were all there to support those who needed it and come together for something we believed in
People had wonderful signs- some very inventive, some more sarcastic and some making points I just couldn’t help but agree with. My friend had created a placard of Donald Trump’s Tinder profile and the compliments just kept on coming. People were so comfortable and friendly enough to come up to us, ask for pictures, ask questions about it and congratulate her on her creativity.
Strangers actually coming up to you to say a compliment in the middle of London was definitely something I had never experienced before. The usual English attitude of keeping a ‘polite’ distance from strangers clearly had no place here. And neither did any hate or division.
People had wonderful signs- some very inventive, some more sarcastic
Once we had arrived at Trafalgar square some marchers had brought along free bread and water for everyone involved. I couldn’t believe it. The kindness, respect and togetherness was tangible and I couldn’t help but feel that despite the barriers for those Trump targets, there will always be people willing to stand up for those who are treated unfairly.
Once the speeches had finished the march was far from over. Many people stuck around to chat, get to know each other and dance to the music buskers and other marchers were playing. The Facebook event for the Women’s March to this day still has new posts and pictures from people who were moved by the day – in this way the unity has carried on.
Some marchers had brought along free bread and water for everyone involved
On the train back, our legs were tired but our hearts were proud – we had stood up for what we believed in, and although we had gone down to the march as two young girls who were passionate about supporting our sisters in America and showing Trump that the world won’t just take his actions lying down.
We came back a part of a bigger community – a community who will always be connected and believes in respect and equality for all.
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