Social activist Diane Ballantyne is leading a group of 11 local women taking part in the Women’s March on Washington on Jan. 21.
The aim of the march, which takes place one day after Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 45th president of the United States, is to send a “bold message” to the new government about women’s rights, officials say.
Ballantyne said she was appalled at the language used in the recent election cycle – and even more so when Trump was declared the victor.
“I watched in shock on election night as probably, arguably the most highly qualified person who’s ever run for office was defeated by someone of such, you know, poor character and no experience,” she said.
She first saw details about the march on Facebook and immediately knew she wanted to take part.
She said she went out on a limb and bought three hotel rooms in Washington prior to reaching out to see if anyone wanted to join. Ten others, eight from Wellington County, signed on.
The Jan. 21 march has garnered national and international attention, with over 200,000 registered and more than 600,000 expressing interest.
The event’s creators stated the march is to stand in solidarity for the protection of rights of women and other equity-seeking groups.
“It really is an intersectional march for people to get together and say we all have different experiences and backgrounds, but we want to work together to make sure that people who are in equity-seeking groups are feeling like they are supported,” said Ballantyne.
She added it was important for Canadians to support Americans on this issue.
“What happens in the United States affects Canada … so I think that it’s important to be there as a Canadian in support of what our American friends are going to be dealing with,” she said.
“We need to have a voice and say ‘we are really interested in making sure that all of these groups are still being protected’ and that ‘we are much stronger together than we are divided.’”
The march will start as a rally at Independence Avenue and Third Street, near the U.S. Capitol building. Filmmaker Michael Moore has confirmed on Twitter that he will be one of the speakers at the event.
Others who have confirmed their attendance include actresses America Ferrera, Amy Schumer, Julianne Moore and Jessica Chastain. More than 370 “Sister Marches” are expected all over the world.
“I think that it’s going to be a historic moment to be a part of,” said Ballantyne.
