When I decided to attend the Women’s March in Denver last year I had no idea what to expect. I was spurred to join by the joint motivation to witness and participate in history. I had no idea when I headed out - alone, on a whim - that I would be part of the biggest protest in United States history. This year, I will attend the march far better prepared.

The Women’s March will take place on Saturday, January 20 or Sunday, January 21, depending on the location. Here is what to expect:

  1. Comradery: I stood waiting for a bus to the civic center in downtown Denver with a long line of people carrying signs and wearing pink hats. Bus after bus passed our stop, already full of protesters. And then, one after another, cars pulled over to fill any empty seats they had. On any other day, it would have been a shock. During the Women’s March, it felt like the most natural thing in the world.
  2. Post-march events: The march is not the end of the day, in fact it is more like a precursor to the main show. Many major cities will have a lineup of speakers and performers ready to talk, sing or recite their insight.
  3. A wide range of topics: Be prepared to hear about all kinds of issues that women face including birth control access, healthcare, LGBTQ rights, Black Lives Matter, disability advocacy, evidence-based policymaking, and climate change.
  4. Current events: While we can expect certain themes to remain at the forefront, we will probably see a shift in the way these issues are brought up. Expect less “nasty woman” and more #TimesUp this year. Signs and speeches may denounce the events in Charlottesville, recent tax reform, and immigration policy shifts. The 2018 elections are likely to be a running theme. Local events and issues will shape events in each city.
  5. It will be a long day: On the practical side, make sure you are ready for a full day out. Know your transportation route to and from the location. Are you planning to march? To sit and watch speeches? Shoes and outerwear can make or break your experience. Bring food and water, and dress for the weather.
  6. Accommodations: Events should have seating areas for elderly, disabled, and pregnant attendees. Other resources may include sign-language translators. Before you go, find out what resources will be available to you and where to find them.
  7. Who is welcome? You are. Women, men, and children were out in force last year. Anyone who wants to support the ideals of the march is encouraged to join. You don’t have to agree on every issue. As long as you are willing to listen and be respectful, you are invited.
Learn More

This interactive map displays the affiliated Women’s Marches across the world. If you aren’t near any of them, consider pulling together a group to represent your area.

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Original contribution by Clarissa Coburn.