The Women’s Marches around the world drew in enormous crowds—more than anyone expected. But the supporters that stood out the most were the ones holding their parents' hands, donning bright homemade hats.
Their colorful signs read, “Girl Power!” and “I want to be a scientist” and “Treat everyone the same!” Beside them, parents held their signs up high: “Feminism is a family value” and “Fathers for Daughters” were amongst the most powerful.
Though many families might look down on bringing their children to any type of protest, the Women’s Marches turned out to be a huge teaching lesson for those who did participate. Children of all ages were exposed to real issues that will continue on into their adulthood, and they witnessed the passion behind solving our current political, societal, and environmental problems.
Marching families showed their little ones the wrong in condemning the mistreatment of women, the LGBTQ community, and minorities. By taking this event as a teaching opportunity, parents demonstrated how questioning blatant misconduct is more impactful than turning a blind eye or settling with acceptance. We cannot accept racism. We cannot accept sexism.
We cannot accept Donald Trump and his connection with our children. Because now, his influence is far greater than any other person’s in this country. Every kid wants to be President when they grow up. They will naturally idolize their current president and put their trust in his every word. They will overlook the hate and wrong because their naivety will allow them to believe that the President is always right. For the sake of our children, we cannot normalize the sexist comments Trump has made, his lack of respect or selfishness.
It’s important that families marched because the younger generations need to know that Donald Trump is not a fit to be an idol. Exposure to the marches was exposure to thousands of everyday role models who can show children how to value social justice and human rights—rather than money and self-interest—and the true meaning of feminism.
No real change will happen for our country if our voices aren’t carried through to the next generations. Helping children understand what is currently at stake will cultivate a compassionate community that will continue the fight for a better future.
I had the privilege to march alongside these young generations in Seattle. Together we felt the raw energy of more than 100,000 human beings—radiating their anger, hopes, frustration, and dreams throughout the heart of our city—and our messages were loud and clear.
All photos are my own.
