This past Saturday I got the pleasure of joining over 500,000 women and men to fight for equality for women. As a 17 year old girl I am scared for the future and for a while I had the feeling that no one else would fight for the same things as me. But standing alongside millions of people around the world, made me realize that there are so many people want change in this country.

I heard a ton of speakers preach about their ideas and personal stories regarding women’s health care and women’s equality. Scarlett Johansson gave an insanely moving and inspiring speech regarding her own experience with Planned Parenthood. It was really moving and eye-opening and it made me think. You hear a lot about how Planned Parenthood is solely an abortion clinic, but after hearing all of these women speak about their own experiences, I realized that Planned Parenthood does way more for women than administer safe abortions.

The best part of the march that brought a smile to my face everytime I looked up was the creativity and variety of signs that people were carrying. I saw a multitude of insanely creative signs like “Let’s talk about the elephant in the womb” and one woman had a tissue paper, very detailed, vagina. It was hysterical but at the same time I admired the detail and creativity. The signs were incredible and in all honesty I can not wait until my next protest when I can make an original sign of my own.

A theme across all of the speeches was to get active, to be so politically active that it is a normalcy in life. CALL YOUR REPRESENTATIVES!! That was the biggest message across the board and I can see why. People need to take action especially if they want real change. I started by immediately donating to Planned Parenthood. It was something I felt passionate about and I wanted to help in any way I can. Do what you can, trust me, it is one of the best feelings in the world.

After seeing these people come together all over the world, I know that we can help change this country in a good way. It is so empowering to take part in politics and help influence change, so please take advantage of this democracy. Let your voice be heard!