Protesting President Donald Trump’s second inauguration, the People’s March, formerly known as the Women’s March, was organized in states across the country. The small but resolute community of Galesburg united for this cause too.
The reinvention of the march pertains to increased inclusivity and broadening the range of progressive ideas advocated for at the demonstration.
“So a small group of people got together and decided they want to do something, with everything that’s happening in the country[…]just wanting to express their concerns for the direction we are moving, to express support for equity,” said city council candidate Tianna Cervantez.
On Saturday, Jan. 18, a group of approximately 100 peaceful protestors gathered at Opie’s Bar and Grill on North Broad Street. Here, the organizers laid out rules for the group to ensure their safety and the smooth sailing of the march. Self-defense classes were being offered as an alternative for people who did not want to march.
Organizer Pam Davidson assembled the group to get them ready for the procession to the courthouse. Issues of racial justice and feminism were brought up, and opposition to Trump’s administration was voiced.
“I am a woman and proud of it[…]I am marching today for everyone[…]We may not like the choice of the president, but we will have a choice in 13 months to vote for the Senate and the House,” said Davidson, who is a member of the Knox County Board.
“As a teacher I feel like I need to make it clear [what] my beliefs [are] because I want my students to know that I am always a person they can come to and talk to and I see them for all of who they are,” said one of the organizers, Addison Anderson.
Posters at the march read messages like “Keep laws away from autonomy,” “Never back down,” and “Hey hey, ho ho, your backward views have got to go.”
The atmosphere at the protest brought attention to empowering the people and opposition to the Trump administration. Protestors shared stories of oppression and resistance, while the crowd cheered expressing their support.
The Pussyhat that gained popularity at the 2017 women’s march also made a comeback, as people united under the common banner of autonomy and freedom.
The march was faced with no resistance and ended peacefully.
