News / Politics
Women march in Bristol against President Trump
An estimated one thousand protesters marched from Queen Square to College Green to stand in solidarity with the Women’s March on Washington DC.
The Bristol march was one of more than 600 sister marches to show unity in the face of Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric in his first day as President of the United States.
is needed now More than ever
When fitness instructor Carly Wilkinson noticed that there was no march organised for the city she decided to set one up, only 72 hours in advance.
Despite describing herself as “not a natural leader”, Wilkinson encouraged more than 500 people in Bristol to sign up to the event online, and more than double appeared in person on the day.
Men and women of all ages marched; some walked quietly while others chanted and sung.
Passing cars and buses beeped in solidarity as the march processed through the city centre.
Wilkinson said: “I’m so humbled, delighted and overwhelmed. And I’m really excited to put Bristol’s voice on a global stage.”
Bristol showed its creativity through witty placards. One of the most admired was a little girl who wore a piece of card round her neck. On it was written: ‘I am a mighty girl’
Wilkinson (pictured below, centre) noted the value of these protests: “I think it’s important that people who have got a difference of opinion get a chance to express it.
“It’s not to say one opinion is right but everyone deserves a say, and it felt like smaller voices were being crushed, ridiculed and belittled, and this was a way to bring the smaller voices together.”
Read more: Trump protest on Bristol Bridge