If you’re scared of the world turning into Gilead from the “Handmaid’s Tale,” written by Margaret Atwood, join the club. On January 20th, the Nation-wide Women’s March took place in cities across the United States. Women and men of all backgrounds were seen marching in pink pussycat hats and “DUMP TRUMP” signs. Activists demanding equal rights for people of all sexes, color, and race.
I participated in the march here in Los Angeles. According to the LA Times, a total headcount of approximately 500,000 participants took over the streets of downtown Los Angeles. I marched the streets with my handmade sign and I was astonished by how many human beings were standing outside in the cold since the crack of dawn to fight for basic human rights.
It’s hard to believe that it’s been two years since the election. I remember being at work, watching the news as Trump was announced as my new president. My first thought was, “I need to go get an IUD tomorrow” (if you don’t know what that is, you should probably look it up), I was deep in despair. I felt personally attacked because I was a woman and it was the first time in my life felt scared for my well being.
It feels good to collectively march together, not just for one cause but for many others. This year’s Women’s March wasn’t just for women; it was also for the Black Lives Matter Movement, the Dreamers, the LGBTQ+ and #metoo survivors. But we have to remember that marching doesn’t change politics, voting does.
In the 2016 election, nearly half the population didn’t vote! People! Your vote matters! If you are a citizen of the United States of America, you have the right to vote. Don't use your job as an excuse because according to California’s State Law, you have 2 hours to go vote during your shift and it’s paid. Know your rights.
I come from a country that was under martial law a few years ago and now slowly descending into something that is looking like a dictatorship. I am that much more appreciative of the democracy that I am currently surrounded by.
So let’s grab them by the midterms on November 6th! SAVE THE DATE. Yes, America has this thing called midterm elections that happen midway through the presidency. If you are as passionate as I am about basic human rights, please vote. For more information on how the midterm elections can change current situations, go here.
You can register to vote online. The deadline to register or re-register to vote for any election is 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the 15th calendar day before that election. After registering you will be notified of places where you can cast your voice.
I know voting seems like a foreign routine and extra work because it is, but if you’re unhappy by the way things are, take some time to do research and see how you can make a difference.