Why Supporting Women’s March is Important for Everyone

Millions of women have shown their dedication to the cause of feminism by participating in and supporting the Women’s March this Saturday. Women in various cities of the US and London took to the streets to join hands and protest on issues like sexual harassment, gender bias and the misogyny so rampantly found in our culture.

There is more to this march, than women coming out on the streets to protest.

It is a phenomenon. A combination of holding out powerful placards, making powerful speeches and refusing to let cultural misogyny rule their lives.

These marches are also important to keep#MeToo movement strong and engaging. The movement which started in the virtual world first has long transcended into the physical world. But our span of attention in the millennial world is not more than a toddler set free in a toy shop. Women’s march hence is a way to make sure that we don’t lose focus and remember that the battle is far from over.

What Indians can learn from the women’s march

Actors like Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson, used the podium to call out cultural bias and duplicity faced by women in their struggle. Probably their stand will motivate some celebrities in our country to orchestrate a Times Up we so need in our country.

It is a proof that such movements can usher in massive changes and evoke strong responses. It also sets an example for men and women to express solidarity to this cause for the sake of betterment of the society.

These marches have become places where the participants overcome barriers of socio-economic standing, race and religion. Such display of solidarity seems to be of utmost need in the times we live in.

According to a report on Statista, Twitter, where #MeToo raised a storm, has only some 330 million active users. Outside of social media the resistance to sexual harassment, gender bias or political agendas which curb women’s rights, need our physical participation.

The effect of non-violent protests might not be immediate. But if we come together, the sheer number of people who participate, would be enough to stimulate a dialogue. We have to remember that this resistance is all about opening up. It's about refusing to stay silent. We don’t have to be violent and disruptive. The sheer number of people participating will speak volumes, without us having to say much.

Also Read : Top Moments From The Women’s March 2018

Yamini Pustake Bhalerao is a writer with the SheThePeople team, in the Opinions section.  The views expressed are the author’s own