“I see every human as an equal, and the only way our country can ever truly be united is if the hate is driven out with love and tolerance,” said junior Addy Vavick.

     On Sunday January 21,2018, people flooded the streets of Downtown Pittsburgh for the second annual Women’s March.  It was the one year anniversary of the women’s march that took place last year in Pittsburgh.

     Junior Addy Vavick participated in the march with her stepmom.  This was her first time being involved, “I didn’t know what to expect because I’ve never been to any rally or  anything else like that before, so my goal was to, I guess, just take in the new experience and to support protesting for women’s and minorities’ rights,” said Vavick.

     Addy and her stepmom left at 11:30 to go to Pittsburgh that day.  When they arrived, they listened to guest speakers for about a half hour.  The people giving the speeches were mainly democrats that were running for the house and senate in the 2018 elections.  Their goal was to rally votes and state their causes and beliefs.  “It was really cool to hear because I’ll actually be able to vote in that election,” said Vavick.

     After the speeches, they marched through Pittsburgh until they got to Market Square.  During the march there were chants and signs being held.
The importance of this event was to empower those who are normally told by society that they are weak or lesser than others. “I thought it was amazing to see the support for women, members of the LGBTQ + community, women of color, immigrants, people affected by DACA. It was amazing to see so many people come together for what they believe is right, and very refreshing to see that people actually have the same beliefs as me,” said Vavick.   

     Addy plans to go to this march every year as long as it continues.  She has a strong belief of everyone coming together and accepting one another for who they are.  

     “Going to Latrobe, where the majority of people are conservatives, it’s hard to express my personal beliefs without being attacked. It was a supportive and friendly environment to be in,” said Vavick.
This event has changed Addy’s perspective, and she feels as if she can express her voice more now.  

“I wish for future generations to grow up believing that they are capable of anything no matter their race, gender, sexual orientation, or any other factor that is traditionally seen as less superior,” said Vavick.