Thousands gathered in central London to honor International Women’s Day during the annual Million Women Rise march. This year marked the 19th iteration of the event, organized by a coalition of women’s groups led by black and global majority activists. The collective champions the cause of ending violence against women and girls.
Focus on Violence Against Women
Participants voiced their anger over the escalating gender-based violence and the alarming rollback of women’s rights. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of solidarity as diverse groups united for a common cause. Protesters echoed powerful chants including “Women got the power” and “Say it once, say it again–no excuse for violent men.”
Voices from the March
- Melissa: A first-time protester for women’s rights, she expressed her frustration over the rise of the far right, emphasizing the need for action.
- Fenella: She attended to combat feelings of hopelessness regarding gender-based violence and restrictive laws affecting women’s rights, particularly in the U.S. and the U.K.
- Cheryl: A teacher and NEU union member, she highlighted her commitment to women’s rights, inspired by young women in her community.
- Naima: Joined by her mother and daughter, she shared hopes for a world where future generations of women are free.
Women Against the Far Right
The Women Against the Far Right (WAFR) organization also played a key role in this year’s march. Rimaz Ahmed from WAFR emphasized that International Women’s Day serves as both a celebration of advancements in women’s rights and a call to action to protect these rights from regression.
The Reality of Political Rhetoric
Ahmed criticized political parties that use feminist language while perpetuating racism and sexism. She stated, “Their politics was never about women’s liberation. It is about protecting a system that profits from division, exploitation, and inequality.”
She urged attendees to remember that true liberation is interconnected. “Our liberation does not come from division. It comes from unity,” she asserted. The event concluded with a collective commitment to organizing and continuing the fight for women’s rights across all communities.
