The Women’s March has become a major topic of conversation since it began to gain traction just days after the presidential election. Overnight, it exploded and went from being an idea thrown out by a woman in Hawaii on Facebook and into an actual event. With all the excitement, the main March in D.C. has inspired solidarity marches all over the country and across the globe.

Despite a lot of positive press and feelings about the March, there are still many who do not understand its intent or do not know anything about it at all. Thousands of women, men and children from the state of Florida, including many from Sarasota and Bradenton, will be making the trip to D.C. There is also a solidarity march right here in Sarasota for people to participate in as well.

The Women’s March will be taking place in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, January 21 starting at 10 a.m. The local solidarity march will start at noon at Island Park and include marching across the Ringling Bridge.

Below are a few talking points about the March, its purpose and some details that all citizens should know about this historic event.

What is the purpose of this march?

The mission of the Women’s March on Washington is to bring people of all genders and backgrounds together to take a stand on social justice and human rights issues that deeply impact all of us. We believe that women’s rights are human rights. Many Americans fear that their voices will be lost, specifically on issues that impact women’s rights, immigrant rights, worker rights, reproductive rights, LGBTQIA rights, environmental rights, rights for all races, and religious freedom.

So it’s an anti-Trump protest?

This is not an anti-Trump protest. While the rhetoric of the campaign season deeply troubled us, we gather to offer a statement affirming our shared humanity and the fundamental rights that spring from it. The March is a non-violent movement of solidarity.

If I voted for Trump can I still take part?

Of course! Everyone is welcome. Regardless of who you voted for, if you believe in human rights and a progressive Florida which protects its vulnerable communities and neighbors, you should be at the March!

Who is leading this event?

This March is a diverse women-led movement, This grassroots effort has grown organically from an initial Facebook post on November 9, the day after the election, to now hundreds of thousands of expected attendees in Washington, D.C.

Who will be leading the solidarity marches in Florida?

The marches in Florida are comprised of a group of organizers who represent the regional areas of Florida. These women come from various backgrounds, represent people of color, LGBTQI individuals, immigrants, and ages.

What happens after the marches?

After the March, people are encouraged to  join as volunteers or advocates with one or more of the many diverse partner organizations who are supporting the Women’s March on Washington.

For more information visit the Women’s March website.

Also, if you are interested in taking part in a solidarity march check out the Facebook page and the website for the one that will be taking place in Sarasota.