Women's march was an important event

During the early part of mid-January, my 20-year-old granddaughter Jessie called me. “G-ma, what are you doing Saturday, Jan. 21?” “Why”?” was my response. “There’s a women’s march in Ephrata and I want you and Joelee to go with me.” (Joelee is her 12-year-old sister.) Of course I said yes and I’m sure glad I did. What a learning experience for me as well as Jessie and Joelee.

It may have been called a women’s march, but I was amazed to see so many men there. Some with their wee babes on their backs or in strollers. One dad told me he was there for both his son’s and his daughter’s future. I was also impressed by the large number of young people who were involved. Plus all us senior citizens. I was proud to be among them. There were over 250 participants.

The suffragettes marched for women’s right to vote and on Aug. 18, 1920 Amendment XIX was ratified. I would hope their participation would not be considered extreme.

The women’s march was about equal rights for all, equal pay for women, health insurance, respect for all no matter if you agree or disagree with their lifestyle. I’ve always told my kids and grandkids, “Who are you to tell someone else what to do with their lives? You don’t want someone telling you, so be kind.”

In watching the news I don’t recall seeing any type of violence associated with the women’s marches around the world. So I can’t possibly see how anyone could say they were encouraging violence. Mainly encouraging equal rights for all, love and peace.

For all those who, over the years, have marched for what is right, our gratitude is yours.

Oh, I urge all to exercise your right to vote. Vote “yes” for the school bond Feb. 14. Please.

Joan M. Green

Moses Lake