Originally, I had no idea what I might write for this week's article. So many things crossed my mind, but when I stepped foot in Lansing on Saturday afternoon, an idea immediately struck me. I knew I wanted to write about something that mattered. I wanted to make a difference with my work, I always have, which is why I decided to tell the world about the Women's March.
My professor in one of my Journalism classes asked the class to go out and get three or more interviews that pertained to the first amendment in some way. I knew that the Women's March was going on in Lansing on January 20th, but I wasn't super eager to go. Crowds have always stressed me out, but this one was different.
Michigan's capitol was full of peace and kindness. It was different than anything I had ever experienced. There was absolutely no hostility or hatred. Just respect and love. I have never felt so empowered in my entire life.
The women, children, and men that I spoke with were all so kind and were so willing to speak with me. I was surprised. As a young journalist, getting interviews can sometimes be like pulling teeth. People will turn you away for millions of different reasons, but this environment was different. It was as though I was in a completely different world. One that didn't radiate hate and violence, but love and respect. It gave me great hope in America.
For hundreds of years, women have been mistreated, called degrading names, etc. To see thousands of people gathered together to fight for the same cause was nearly breathtaking, but to actually speak to them gave me goosebumps. The thing that really amazed me was to see mothers and fathers with their young children, teaching them from a young age to stand up for what they believe in.
One woman, Janet MacCormack really stood out to me. She told me stories about marches that she attended when she was younger and about how she distinctly remembers Roe v. Wade. She hadn't been to a Women's March in quite some time.
"It's been a long time since I've been out here," she said. "It feels real good to be back."
Another woman, Stephanie Wieland stopped to speak with me and tell me more about her humorous sign.
"We must overcome the hate that he (Trump) projects," she said.
As I walked towards the car to leave, thousands of people marched down the street yelling, "Whose streets? Our streets!"
The whole experience was really eye opening. It made me realize that there is good in the world. In fact, there's good all around us, we just have to be willing to accept it.
