In today’s society, as a mother and a woman of color, I find it imperative to voice my reasons for participating in marches advocating for justice and equality. Imagine, if you will, being the sole person of your race in your neighborhood or workplace. Visualize your child being the only one of their background in a classroom. Envision others attributing your success solely to affirmative action or being surprised that you speak your native language fluently—only because it challenges their preconceived notions. It’s a reality that many people of color face daily, and it’s important to acknowledge that the experiences of white individuals, even in minority settings, do not equate to the systemic disenfranchisement faced by marginalized communities.
The United States has long been structured around exclusionary practices, intentionally keeping people of color out of neighborhoods, schools, and professions. For instance, Portland, Oregon, where I reside, did not allow integrated housing until 1948; prior to that, Black residents were entirely barred from living within city limits. Even after integration, practices like redlining perpetuated segregation. This pattern of exclusion is not unique to Portland; it is reflective of many communities across the nation.
Over the years, as urban areas suffered neglect, property values fell, leading to a return of those who had fled to the suburbs. This gentrification process transformed neighborhoods where Black and Brown families had lived for generations, pushing them out as new, wealthier residents moved in and redefined the cultural landscape. Local markets were replaced by upscale boutiques, and long-standing establishments were turned into trendy cafes.
On January 21, 2017, I will join countless women in my city and across the nation to march for our rights and to resist any forces attempting to undermine them. The Women’s March on Washington embodies the essence of intersectional feminism, a concept that some still struggle to grasp. Why is it crucial to center the experiences of marginalized women? Because true liberation cannot be achieved until all women are free, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. so eloquently stated.
The national platform of the Women’s March resonates deeply with me: “We believe Gender Justice is Racial Justice is Economic Justice.” This message underscores the need for all women—especially those who are Black, Native, immigrant, or queer—to thrive in safe and nurturing environments, free from systemic barriers.
I march for my grandmother, who stood alongside Dr. King in 1965 to integrate Boston’s schools. I march for my mother, who bravely faced hostility while advocating for her right to education. And I march for my child, who, over fifty years later, still risks attending segregated schools.
I stand for working families who are being priced out of their own neighborhoods, and for mothers who struggle to afford childcare, often provided by underpaid caregivers, many of whom are women of color. The disparities are evident—women of color face higher rates of violence, lower earnings, and inadequate healthcare.
The issues at hand affect all women, but it is vital to recognize that the struggles are not equal. Some women encounter obstacles, while others face insurmountable barriers. Without acknowledging these differences, we cannot genuinely practice feminism.
White feminists must confront their privilege and understand that their path to equity may be easier than that of women of color. The historical context of feminism reveals that women of color have been advocating for their rights for centuries, often sidelined in the movement. Today’s white feminists must not repeat the mistakes of the past; they must acknowledge that not all women experience oppression in the same way.
This responsibility lies heavily on the shoulders of white individuals. Ending systemic racism requires active participation from those who have historically benefited from it. Raise your children to be anti-racist. Challenge your biases and be open to learning. Only through collective action can we dismantle the structures of oppression that persist in our society.
In summary, as a mother and woman of color, my reasons for marching are rooted in a rich history of struggle and resilience. My participation is not just for my family, but for all marginalized voices seeking justice and equality. For more information on related topics, visit Make A Mom and March of Dimes for valuable resources.
Keyphrase: women of color march
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