Women’s March big in New York City

An estimated 200,000 women, men and children took to the streets of Manhattan last Saturday on the first anniversary of President Trump’s inauguration.

Many traveled from Long Island to participate in the Women’s March by taking the Long Island Rail Road, where the trip to Manhattan acted as a precursor of what was to follow. The atmosphere on the train was jubilant, with protesters cheering for one another as they boarded the train, especially if they carried signs. And for those who didn’t have signs, someone usually had extras to offer.

Placards at the march, held on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, had a variety of messages, with many indicating a disdain for Trump. Others encouraged people to vote and thus make their voices heard.

The march included people of all ages, with little girls chanting alongside adults, all demanding equality. Anti-sexual harassment messages were shared, as were commemorations of the 45th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court decision that gave women the right to an abortion.

As is typical at big events in Manhattan, many stood by watching the march. But several onlookers also joined in the action, chanting along with protesters, cheering them on or waving signs that they had made to indicate their support.

The only moments when angry voices were raised came when marchers paused at hotels owned by Trump. Many stopped to yell “shame” at the people coming and going from them. But soon the protesters moved on, perhaps realizing that the person who fueled their anger wasn’t there.