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Following the historic, global turnout of the Women’s March, citizens with concerns about the future of our nation have used that energy to mobilize and take further action in whatever ways possible to make sure that their voices are heard. From participating in other peaceful protests, to actively engaging in political discourse on social media, men and women of all classes, ages, ethnicities and cultures are banding together to make sure that their voices are being heard.
Over the weekend, I was able to attend an event hosted by a trio of women who utilized the Women’s March‘s “HUDDLE” program to organize a letter writing campaign, giving anybody an opportunity to reach out to senators, congressmen, etc to voice their concerns. With over 80 people in attendance and over 550 postcards mailed, issues raised covered the gamut, and was not just limited to women’s rights. Here are some of those voices:
“We have to empower the leaders who ARE standing up, and thank them for what they are doing, otherwise they might not be incentivized to keep fighting the fight.”
“Because Planned Parenthood saved my life.”
“Privatization of public lands will have an adverse effect on economies, both big and small.”
“I think that it’s important for people to gather together, to let their voices be heard in order for change to come about.”
“I feel that the current administration is clearly exploiting our natural resources for their own immediate financial gain, only looking in the short term. We need to look to the future, fight for our children, or they will have a much worse quality of life than we have.”
“I’ve needed Planned Parenthood. My mom’s needed Planned Parenthood. My sister’s needed Planned Parenthood … and we’ve needed it for things that aren’t abortion. The biggest negative stigma about [Planned Parenthood] is that it’s all about abortion, but it’s so much more than that.”
“Water is Life, Water is Life, Water is Life.”
“I stand with my sisters and brother for human rights.”
“We need to speak for those who can’t speak for themselves yet.”
There is strength in numbers. By building or joining a community of support with like minded individuals, the task of having your voice be heard may not feel so daunting. Regardless of your political leanings, take it upon yourself to engage in the political discourse, not only to raise your concerns but also to explain and/or educate those who may not understand why it is you believe what you believe.
If you are interested in organizing your own political gathering, and don’t know how to get started, the Women’s March website has a succinct template that you can use to organize your own gathering. Be a part of the process. Embrace your right as an American to let your voice, whatever it wants to say, be heard.
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