Thousands participate in Women’s March on Pittsburgh

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On Saturday, Jan. 21, history was made at the Women’s March on Pittsburgh where 25,000 men and women marched for their beliefs while holding banners, flags, and signs while speaking their minds.

The Pittsburgh Women’s Organization that originally applied for the permit only estimated for about 400 people, but, to their surprise, more than 25,000 came to march with their family, friends, and even animals!

The rally was called “The Women’s March;” however, all minority groups were recognized and represented through the parade as all people regardless of gender, color, religion, sexuality, nationality, and culture attended and joined in to have their voices heard. Marchers felt that they’veĀ been overlooked or mistreated by President Donald J. Trump’s said words, actions, and future plans.

Mayor Bill Peduto fully stood behind the Women’s March and told WPXI News, “We will be that city that we all know that we can be; a city that is based upon compassion. A city that is based upon understanding and a city that’s based upon love.”

The march started at 11 AM by City Hall but people started to arrive much earlier. From 11 AM on, thousands and thousands marched through the alleyways of Pittsburgh and into Market Square around noon where speakers lifted the crowd’s spirits and energy.

The rally was not “anti-Trump,” however it was anti-hate and discrimination.

“We stand for religious freedom, human rights, climate justice, racial justice, economic justice and reproductive justice,” the Pittsburgh Women’s Organization writes on Facebook.

Despite the overwhelming number of participants who marched, not one arrest was made out of the 25,000 people attended. Police were seen dancing and singing with the young children as well as other participants to “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge over a loud speaker.

The business owners and workers also had their own fair share of fun as all the attention in Market Square brought lively business to their shops and restaurants.

The March was over around 1 PM but the singing, dancing, and joining of hands were continued throughout the afternoon in Pittsburgh as the sun began to set.