I have been to all three women’s marches. Eugene’s, this year, was called the Womxn’s march. I go alone and see who I end up with. I always find a buddy and we walk and talk through most of it.
I ended up walking with a retired veterinarian this year and we talked about health, traveling, and book recommendations. We last chatted maybe 20 years ago? We have both been to every march. We talked about unity and division and we decided to go with unity. It was great to walk along in the movement of marchers having a good talk. At the end she said if I was the neighborhood to “stop by.” I was happy for the invitation. This is a good part of marches, you see who is out there, willing to show up, and get along, regardless of how perfect your ideals match up.
Talking with a white, male coworker the day before the march was informing. It was a good conversation, and I was glad he asked about it.
He asked, why march? Aren’t there other things to do?
I didn’t judge him for asking and he didn’t judge me for answering.
We need this sort of inquiry among us.
We need to march to publicly gather with our people and make a statement to send a message. This is my simple reasoning. It’s important to remember our voices matter. They really do.
It feels like we are in a chapter of change and transition; therefore, we need to hang on and keep a global focus. Not get distracted by division. If we are to be inclusive, which is a wonderful goal, we need to stay whole.
I appreciated those who showed up to be supportive.
I wonder if we can hit the intended mark? What if it moves? Changes? Can we be flexible with each other? There were several dogs in the crowd; they looked happy to be there! Salem had a llama in the middle of a people pack. They win for diversity. Though, I could be mistaken, I didn’t research this.
Earlier this week, I was in a discussion with an unrelated group about community. We were asked to ask questions of ourselves, such as:
What personal habits can you implement to be more welcoming and inclusive?
When have you been able to let go of your individual desires for the sake of unity?