Roger Johnson, San Clemente
It was heartwarming indeed to see the huge turnout for the San Clemente Women’s March on Jan. 21. Observers estimated that at least 1,000 participated, which made it one of the largest demonstrations in the history of San Clemente. Although it was billed as a women’s march, there were many men as well and especially impressive were all the children.
The demonstration was friendly and peaceful. Marchers filled the sidewalks stretching all the way from the community center to the top of Del Mar. Shopkeepers came out to applaud and motorists honked in approval. Although the purpose was to support the rights of women, many also chose to voice their disapproval of the Trump administration. Some participants wore “Nasty Woman” T-shirts and one woman held a sign saying “NOPE” (Not my President Ever). Another held a sign reading, “I Teach My Sons Respect for Women.”
Many chose to focus on women’s rights with signs reading “Women’s Rights Are Human Rights,” “Misogyny is for Wimps” and “Watch Me Roar.” A little girl held a sign saying “Girl Power—I am the Future.” Other signs championed causes such as, “Protect My Planet,” or “I Believe in Public Education.” One said, “Build Bridges, Not Walls.”
My favorite signs included a kid with a sign that read, “Make American Tolerant Again” and a man whose sign read, “Make America Think Again.” Overall, the rally was an impressive demonstration of women speaking out. The rally did not match the 20,000 people who turned out in Santa Ana or the 6,000 who protested in Laguna Beach. But filling the main street of San Clemente was indeed memorable. Thanks to everyone who participated.
Editor’s note: Sources contacted by San Clemente Times estimated the march’s attendance was closer to 500 people, but more showed up after the march began.
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