The Women’s March On Washington Joined By #Run4AllWomen
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer
The real beauty of democracy is the freedom to express ourselves, the passion to stand up for our beliefs without repercussions of fear or punishment.
On January 21, 2017, a large community of women will begin their historic walk at 10:00 a.m. EST in the city of Washington, D.C.. The march will begin on Independence Avenue and Third Street SW, near the US Capitol building. Not only will the march be comprised of local activists, fervent believers and women standing up for their rights, but, it will be a rally drawing an unprecedented crowd from all throughout our nation. In order to participate, you must register on womensmarch.com. The website also has all the general information you will need to become a part of history.
The mission is decisive and vision is clear. All women, regardless of race, color or religion, unite in solidarity with their partners and children for the protection of their rights, safety, health and families – forever recognizing just how crucial that vibrant and diverse communities are to the strength of our country. The message goes out to all Americans and to the world. With the presence of such a large number of women in Washington on this day, it is time for the new government and incoming leader-in-charge to recognize that women’s rights are equally human rights.
There will be no violence, no upheaval, only unity in the desire for respect, parity and equity at all levels of leadership in our current society. The talent behind the establishment of the Women’s March is very impressive. With Tamika D. Mallory at the helm, and flanked by Carmen Perez, Linda Sarsour, Bob Bland, Vanessa Wruble, Cassady Fendlay, Janaye Ingram and many other professionals working diligently to organize the march, there is no doubt that heads will turn and eyes will open wide to pay attention to the message. The honorary co-chairs are quite possibly two of the most prominent activists of this era, the distinguished Gloria Steinem and the multi-talented Harry Belafonte.
While some are gearing up for this major march in Washington, four particular women are just days away from a run for a major cause. It will all begin in New York City and finish in Washington, D.C. in an effort to raise funding, educate the public and build a greater awareness for Planned Parenthood. Initially the the run was to be on Monday, January 16, 2017, but due to the overwhelming response and support from friends, fans and followers, the run will begin at 6:00 p.m. EST in Harlem and make its way to Washington, D.C. through the various states that will make the route a 240-mile significant run for the cause. Now, instead of just the four runners, any and all women are invited to join by going to #WomensRunning or #Run4AllWomen. The finish line ends in Washington just in time to participate in the Women’s March on Washington and the runners will all meet with the rest of the group to finish the March on Saturday, January 21, 2017. The goal was to raise $44K for the Planned Parenthood initiative, and the collection so far has already topped $35K, thanks to the generosity of so many with a heartfelt sincerity. Due to the length of the run, there will be a van accompanying the group for resting weary legs along the way and a much needed haven to get a bit of shut-eye in the evenings.
Leader of the Run is Alison Mariella Desir, also known as the ‘Fearless Leader’. Alison Mariella Désir is a running coach, the founder of the Harlem Run running crew, and a contributor to Women’s Running magazine. Running is her lifeblood and #1 interest. She could not be happier with the way this run is turning out and is sure it will be a huge success.
“I read somewhere, ‘No one person can change the world, but we can each do our part.’ I’m from Harlem. I live to run. What can I do?” Désir writes on GoFundMe. “Well, it’s no secret that this incoming Administration and Congress have a target on women’s right to choose and women’s health. There will never come a time that I look back and wonder, ‘what could I have done to protect that right?’”
Alison strongly encourages those that are unable to come to New York City to take part in her run to organize their own solidarity run anytime on or between Wednesday, January 18th through Friday, January 20, 2017. Use the hashtag #Run4AllWomen. The impact will be felt around the country.
Over the course of the week of January 15th, 2017, momentous events and activities will get underway. As a woman, making sure that each and every voice is heard and recognized with respect, is of the utmost importance. As a new day dawns on our nation, so does a brand new set of political leaders who will govern with skills and prowess that we hope will continue to keep our country one of the most powerful innovators in the entire world.
Whether you do the #Run4AllWomen or participate in the Women’s March On Washington, or decide to do both, or simply donate to the cause, remember that “The Rise Of The Woman = The Rise Of The Nation.”
