2020 Women’s March storms Fredericton

Protesters gathered in -20 C cold this January for the Fredericton women’s march, to raise awareness for women in politics.

The turnout was impressive considering the weather, with many gloved hands sporting bright pink signs.

The march opened with speaker Ron Trembley, Chief of the Wolastoq grand council, who spoke briefly about water system pollution, and his experience with a matriarchal society.

Councillor Kate Rogers also spoke out about her experience as the only woman on the Fredericton city council, and the need for more female representation in politics.

“We march for women in politics and for women as decision makers, and today we’re talking about women being at that table,” said Rogers, giving the crowd a rousing speech before the march.

Marchers were pushing for pay equity legislation, safe abortion access, and awareness for violence against women.

After the march, participants met at city hall for a feminist speakers panel, hosted and organized by Susan O’Donnell.

The panel began with Jennica Atwin, the Green Party MP of Fredericton, who was followed by Rogers.

Rogers moved the audience as she passionately described the struggles she faced in politics, and how she values both her children and her career.

Nicole O’Byrne, assistant professor of law at UNB, said she came out to make connections with politically active women.

 

“We’re trying to get more women to think,‘Well, what’s involved in actually running for city council, how can I get involved,’ and that’s why I’m here today, it’s to meet more people who are interested in doing that, and have those kinds of conversations,” said O’Byrne.

The event ended with an open mic to allow women to share their personal political plans. Among the audience was David Coon, who was there to support women.

“Absolutely, we need more women in politics. We should have 50 percent of our members in legislature and the municipal councils and parliament as women and we don’t, not even close!” said Coon.