Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Kath1

(4,309 posts)
Sat Oct 26, 2013, 02:31 AM Oct 2013

Anyone else participated in the April 25, 2004 March for Women's Lives?

I was just thinking of what a game changing and life-changing event that was for me. I was a catholic and was struggling with the issue of divorce from a devout catholic (abusive). A couple of good friends who were helping me through that trauma (my family was no help) asked me to attend with them. The pastor at my church had just gone off on a pro-life rant the proceeding Sunday and my ex forbid me to go. I went anyway. Took my daughter along, also. I was already pissed off about the Iraq war (ex was all for it) and was disgusted with Bush. I was so amazed about the energy and love of all I saw there! So much more than in church. I was also moved by all the signs which basically said, "How can you be pro-life and pro-war?" The anti-Bush sentiment, which I shared, was everywhere. I went from feeling guilty that I was at a pro-choice rally when I should be at mass to really feeling good about myself for being there for women's rights. I left the march committed to a divorce, peace and feminism (although I still had a lot to learn). Both of my friends I went with had been at the 1989 pro-choice DC rally.

Anyway, I got full custody and have been liberal/progressive/feminist since. No regrets at all!

6 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Anyone else participated in the April 25, 2004 March for Women's Lives? (Original Post) Kath1 Oct 2013 OP
I wasn't there but I love your story. efhmc Oct 2013 #1
Thank you Kath1 Oct 2013 #2
Considering the erosion of abortion rights over the last few years.... Kath1 Oct 2013 #3
Yes. Warren DeMontague Oct 2013 #4
Lucky people. efhmc Oct 2013 #5
Changed my life forever! Kath1 Nov 2013 #6

Kath1

(4,309 posts)
2. Thank you
Sun Oct 27, 2013, 02:35 PM
Oct 2013

My daughter was with me. She was 14 and has still great memories of the demonstration.

Kath1

(4,309 posts)
3. Considering the erosion of abortion rights over the last few years....
Sun Oct 27, 2013, 09:04 PM
Oct 2013

I think we need another huge demonstration. Just to tell the RW they don't control our bodies.

Kath1

(4,309 posts)
6. Changed my life forever!
Sat Nov 2, 2013, 11:42 PM
Nov 2013

Last edited Sun Nov 3, 2013, 09:28 AM - Edit history (1)

On the fence at the time, but it made me totally pro-choice! I was very near the podium for J. Garafalo! I'll never forget the experience!

Latest Discussions»Alliance Forums»Feminists»Anyone else participated ...