It’s a historic event in our country this week, like it or not. And, polls show that most Americans don’t like it. In response to our country’s anger and frustration about the incoming administration, hundreds of women’s marches are being held all over the world, with the flagship event happening right at the heart of our country’s capital, Washington, D.C. Are you heading there this weekend? Our Editor-in-Chief (who will be marching in Philadelphia with her family!) has done the research for you and pulled together this quick guide of resources and advice to make the most out of the Women’s March on Washington.
Top Tips: If you’re heading to the March from Pennsylvania, check out the PA Chapter’s website for additional information. If you’re in NYC, the NYC Chapter’s website is helpful as well. Also, be sure you visit and read the FAQ page the Women’s March website for more detailed answers to just about every question imaginable.
Weather: Hurray! The forecast for this Saturday is currently a high of 54 degrees with only a 10% chance of rain, and while you should be prepared for any kind of weather, it looks like a cold or dreary forecast won’t be a deterrent. However, you are going to be outside all day, so even if it’s 54 and sunny, you’re going to get chilly, so bring hats, scarves and mittens for your entire crew.
Transportation: Looking for a ride to D.C. or a seat on one of the hundreds of busses heading to the capital on Friday or Saturday? That’s probably going to be tough because there is a huge shortage of busses due to such high demand. But, hey, I’m going to call this a good problem to have, even if it’s problematic for some who haven’t finalized their transportation plans just yet.
If you’re in NYC, you can check out the NYC Chapter’s Facebook page where people are posting about additional bus seats for sale/donation. In Philly, check out the Official PA-Southeast Facebook group or the Mt. Airy Facebook group. You’ll have to submit a request to join as these are not open pages.
Amtrak is also a viable (and green!) option, though tickets are getting expensive and those trains are filling up. You can also use good, old fashioned social media to beg a ride with any marchers who are driving.
We support the advocacy and resistance movements that reflect our multiple and intersecting identities. We call on all defenders of human rights to join us. This march is the first step towards unifying our communities, grounded in new relationships, to create change from the grassroots level up. We will not rest until women have parity and equity at all levels of leadership in society. We work peacefully while recognizing there is no true peace without justice and equity for all. —Women’s March Mission & Vision Statement
What Should I Bring?: Perhaps the better question is what not to bring. There are lots of restrictions on bags, so be sure to read the FAQ page on this subject very carefully. All backpacks and bags may be subject to search at the March, and those not conforming to the standards set here may be confiscated or asked to be left behind. Backpacks are not permitted unless they are clear and no larger than 17″x12″x6″ (colored transparent bags are not permitted). Also, bring your smallest hand bag, ladies, because personal bags and purses can be no larger than 8”x6”x4”.
Where Can I Pee?: The Washingtonion published this fantastic guide with information on businesses and offices around the parade route that will be open for marchers to rehydrate, use the bathroom, change your baby’s diapers, and have a quick, complimentary snack. There’s even a handy printable guide included, which we recommend you bring with you in the event that cell service is spotty due to high usage during the March and Rally.
What About the Kids? Ultimately, you have to make your own decision about whether your specific child at their specific age can handle the March. I’m bringing my daughters, who are five and seven, to the Philadelphia March and there’s a chance it won’t be an empowering, joyful experience for them. And, that’s okay. But we’ll bundle up, bring snacks and water, and accept the fact that we may have to peel off early. Life by Braille published a comprehensive guide to marching with kids of all ages. It’s worth the read if you are looking for tips for bringing the wee ones.
Mollie Michel is a South Philly resident and a Philadelphia public school parent. A recovering non-profit professional, Mollie is also an experienced birth doula, Certified Lactation Counselor, and the mom of two awesome girls and a sweet pit bull named Princess Cleopatra. In her spare time, she is usually trying to figure out how Pinterest works, training for a(nother) half-marathon with her dog at her side, or simply trying to keep up with her increasingly wily daughters.