As a mother and a woman of color, I feel compelled to march for a multitude of reasons. Let’s take a moment to envision this scenario: Imagine being the only person of your race in your neighborhood or workplace. Picture your child being the only one of their kind in their classroom. How would it feel to have people assume you landed your job solely due to affirmative action? Or to be told how articulate you are in your native language, which they think contradicts their own biases? These experiences might seem far-fetched, but they are the reality for many individuals of color.
It’s critical to acknowledge that while white individuals can experience certain forms of oppression, they still possess the political and social power in this country. Even if they are marginalized in some ways, they have the privilege to blend in or step back into a position of comfort, a luxury not afforded to people of color.
The foundations of our society were built on exclusion, intentionally pushing people of color out of neighborhoods, schools, and professions. For instance, Portland, Oregon, where I reside, only integrated housing in 1948. This means that black individuals were legally barred from living in the city until then. Even after “integration,” discriminatory practices like redlining ensured that segregation persisted. This is not solely a Portland issue; many communities across the nation employed similar tactics to maintain racial divides.
The consequences of these systemic issues have led to gentrification, where wealthier populations displace longstanding communities of color. Neighborhoods that once thrived with cultural diversity are now filled with high-end boutiques and trendy cafés. Those who lived in these areas for generations are often pushed out, unable to afford the rising costs.
On January 21, 2017, I joined thousands of women in my city to march in solidarity with millions across the nation. We came together to assert our rights to self-determination and to resist any forces that seek to limit those rights. The Women’s March on Washington emphasized the importance of intersectional feminism, a concept that has sparked substantial discussions. Some individuals still struggle to grasp why it’s essential to center the voices of marginalized women rather than unifying under a blanket definition of womanhood.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.‘s words resonate deeply: “Until all are free, none are free.” This principle reminds us that the legacy of segregation and its current manifestation in gentrification is why I march. I draw strength from the Women’s March platform, which declares that Gender Justice is Racial Justice and Economic Justice. We must create a society where all women, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, have the freedom to nurture their families in safe and healthy environments.
I march for my grandmother, who stood alongside Dr. King to integrate Boston’s public schools, and for my mother, who faced hostility as a child simply for seeking education. I march for my child, who still faces the risk of attending segregated schools, and for families like ours, who are priced out of our neighborhoods and struggle for affordable housing.
In our fight for justice, we also advocate for those who are often overlooked, such as childcare providers who are predominantly women of color and often live on minimum wage. We must acknowledge that women of color face violence and discrimination disproportionately, especially in the hands of law enforcement.
You may wonder why race is a focal point in discussions about education, violence, and community safety. The answer is simple: not all women experience oppression in the same way. Without recognizing these disparities, we cannot truly practice feminism.
White women, it’s crucial to understand that your role in this movement is vital. The burden of dismantling white supremacy cannot solely fall on the shoulders of people of color; it requires an active commitment from white individuals. Teach your children to be anti-racist, celebrate diversity, and challenge any racist behavior you encounter.
This work is imperative for creating a more equitable society for all. We cannot shy away from the uncomfortable truths of our history or present. Let’s move forward together, recognizing the systemic issues at play and striving for a collective liberation.
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In summary, my reasons for marching are deeply rooted in personal and collective histories. Together, we can advocate for justice, equity, and a brighter future for all.