Following the massive turnout of women at the Women’s Marches, a Facebook post by a woman named Laura has gained traction. It seems many women share her sentiments.
To summarize: Laura feels the march was unnecessary. In her view, she has everything she needs in America, and if others struggle, it’s their own fault—marching won’t change that.
My Response to Laura
Hello, Laura. While we may not know each other, your #NotMyMarch post has circulated widely today, catching the attention of several friends who align with your perspective.
In some ways, our lives might not be so different. I’m guessing—though I could be wrong—that I’m a college-educated professional mother. I live in a secure neighborhood, surrounded by tall trees and well-kept homes. My days reflect a typical suburban life: my kids enjoy a warm breakfast before school, and I balance work and the gym. Grocery delivery is a convenience I cherish. As a single mom, I sometimes face chaos, but I’m grateful for all I have. I recognize that many women in this country don’t have even a fraction of what I do, and their situations often stem from circumstances beyond their control.
A Crucial Question
Laura, let me pose a crucial question: When was the last time you truly engaged in a meaningful conversation with a woman whose life differs significantly from yours? Take a moment to think about it.
You mentioned feeling like a “disgrace to women” for not supporting those who marched. That’s a clever way to rally support from friends who might share your thoughts, almost like saying, “I know I’m overweight and unattractive,” to elicit reassurance from others.
You assert that your voice is heard and that you don’t feel like a second-class citizen. But perhaps that’s because you’ve never experienced what it’s like to be unheard or to feel second-rate.
You feel in control of your body, and I do too. Next week, I’m scheduled for my annual Pap smear and mammogram, both covered by my insurance as preventive care. A few years back, my doctor suggested an IUD for better birth control, but my insurance didn’t cover it; I would have had to pay $1,000 out of pocket. Other forms of birth control were covered, but those weren’t right for me medically. I ultimately chose to forgo the IUD, but I understand the frustration of having to make such decisions based on finances. That said, I acknowledge I didn’t need it to prevent pregnancy, but that’s a different story.
Have you ever skipped a health check because your child needed shoes, forcing you to prioritize? Not everyone has access to free reproductive healthcare. Have you ever had to stop using birth control because the clinic nearby closed and the next one was too far, especially when juggling two jobs and limited transportation?
Have you ever faced sexual violence or felt threatened by someone? In those moments, did you truly feel in control of your body? This is crucial to understand: violence against women transcends social and economic boundaries. It can happen anywhere, including your neighborhood.
You say you can simply seek employment if you choose to. That’s a privilege I share. I don’t need to seek permission to work, unlike some women who do. Many women dream of employment but face barriers like lack of childcare. Do you know anyone who struggles with these challenges?
You mentioned voting. So do I, and I recently became involved by working at a polling station. I was there to ensure everyone, regardless of their background, had a chance to cast their vote. I welcomed mothers with strollers, the elderly, and anyone who needed help. I even had to turn away some people due to strict ID laws, which often disproportionately affect those who are vulnerable.
You feel heard? Imagine living with the challenges I described and feeling invisible. Imagine your voice drowned out by lobbyists or officials who disregard your needs. What if your life was met with indifference, and decisions were made for you without consideration?
You believe that the only limit to your life is yourself. I feel that way too, thanks to supportive foundations. But not everyone shares that experience. Without encouragement and exposure to possibilities, many women remain trapped in a cycle of despair.
Yes, awful things happen to women worldwide, and I empathize with their suffering. However, we must also acknowledge that numerous women right here in our country face significant challenges and deserve attention.
The Women’s March
This leads me to the Women’s March. I didn’t march out of personal marginalization but because I can. Many women cannot, even if they remain unseen. I marched for women from all walks of life, including those who require reproductive healthcare and those who face systemic barriers. I even marched for you, Laura, even if you don’t feel you need it.
Conclusion
In summary, we all have different experiences and challenges that shape our lives. Understanding and compassion for one another can bridge those gaps, even when our lives appear vastly different.
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