By KATE PIERCE
News/Managing Editor
Downtown Albany was once again swarmed with protesters in pink “pussy” hats and signs supporting women’s rights.
“I think it’s thrilling that it’s happening all around the world,” said Justina Torres, a freshman at Saint Rose,“I think it’s amazing how everyone is brought together.”
A year after the first worldwide protest against the inauguration and administration of President Trump, millions of people gathered worldwide once again. Cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia – and the original location – Washington D.C. Thousands of people marched in these cities and around the world over the weekend.
The march in Albany was held on the park grounds outside of the State Capitol building on Saturday Jan. 20.
A rally was held on the grounds to give an opportunity for speeches and music before the march began. Leaders from local human rights organizations and members of the city common council were some of the many that spoke into the microphone.
“We know that sense is stronger than nonsense,” said Donna Young an Albany Law School Professor. “We know that stability is stronger.”
Young ended her speech with the call of “Albany, we are stronger than this administration.”
In attendance at the event were thousands of women and men from Albany and surrounding areas of Schenectady, Colonie, Delmar, and beyond. Many brought their children and dogs along to join the diverse crowd of various ethnicities, religions, abilities, and nationalities.
“It’s really empowering,” said Callie Stenz, a junior at Saint Rose, in reference to the amount of people at the march and the atmosphere of the event.
The speeches were separated by musicians who played and sang to songs highlighting peace, including a performance by Kevin McKrell of Simon and Garfunkel’s “Last Night I had a Strange Dream.”
Parodies of songs were sung with lyrics aimed at the federal administration like “This Land’s Not Your Land,” to address the divisive policies concerning religious and national backgrounds.
“This land’s not your land / This land’s not my land / From California to New York Island / Whether we are Christians / Or Jews or Muslims / This land was made for you and me,” were some of the lyrics of the parody.
The march started on South Swan Street, led down Washington Avenue, and wrapped back up State Street. The roads were blocked off by vehicles and officers of the Albany Police Department.
“This is what democracy looks like,” was one of the call and responses the crowd members chanted as they took to the streets.
“We need a leader, not an angry tweeter,” was another phrase that the protesters chanted.
Protesters carried signs with messages including “Nasty and proud,” “Resist,” and “The people elected Hillary – there is a traitor in the White House.”
“It’s great to see how everyone comes together,” said Mari Brennan, a junior at Saint Rose.
Torres said that back on campus the atmosphere of protesting and standing up is just as strong.
“I think Saint Rose tackles issues head on,” said Torres. “Students want to get involved in issues of social justice and the college is very receptive and supportive.”
