Let's rewind back to January 21, 2017.
It was a day after the inauguration of former president Donald Trump—five million people congregated in the streets to advocate for women’s reproductive rights, immigration reform, disability justice, LGBTQI+ rights, racial equality and more, making it the largest political protest in history to date. It was a collective effort to send a powerful message to the new US administration that “women’s rights are human rights”.
However, the cause transcended borders and became a worldwide protest against bigotry, misogyny, and discrimination across the globe. Now, it’s time to band together again in a march of solidarity to support equality and justice and put a stop to hatred, discrimination, and violence against any marginalised group. In Australia, you don’t have to be a news nerd to know the recent disturbing allegations that have completely shaken our government framework.
On Monday 15 March, the Women’s March 4 Justice is back and the movement will see marches occurring all over the country. This year, the community action organisation is calling for a couple of things you should know about:
- A full police investigation of rape and sexual assault allegations, and misconduct by Members of Parliament and staff.
- An independent wide-reaching review commissioned by the High Court of gendered violence in Australia’s Parliaments including Federal Parliament.
- Australia wide strategies for deep cultural change in workplaces, and the political and criminal justice systems, focused on promoting equality, respect, fairness, integrity and a level playing field for all.
- A Federal ICAC—Independent Commission Against Corruption.
Those who are keen to join are encouraged to wear all black and don facemasks with the word “#enough” written on the front.
As for where you can join the Women’s March 4 Justice this year, there are numerous marches that will take place across Australia. Scope the details below.
Brisbane
Where: King George Square
When: Monday 15 March, 12pm
Check here for more details.
Melbourne
Where: State Library (328 Swanston Street)
When: Monday 15 March, 12pm
Check here for more details.
Perth
Different Date
Where: Perth CBD – exact location TBA
When: Sunday 14 March, 11:00am
Check here for more details.
Sunshine Coast
Where: Cotton Tree Park, The Esplanade, opp. Second Avenue (Maroochydore Rotary Park)
When: Monday 15 March, 4pm
Check here for more details.
Sydney
Where: Sydney Town Hall – 483 George St Sydney
When: 15th March, 12pm
Check here for more details.
If you can't make it on the day, you can donate to Women's March 4 Justice here or sign the organisation's petition to Parliament demanding action on gendered violence here.
For more information and other cities that are hosting marches, head here.
Image credit: Giacomo Ferroni