In light of the millions of women who took part in the Women’s Marches recently, a Facebook post by a woman named Mia has begun circulating. It seems she has garnered quite a following among women who share her views.
To summarize her argument: Mia believes she doesn’t need this march. She questions why any women would feel the need to participate. In her view, living in America means having access to everything one might need, and if someone feels they lack resources, it’s their own fault—marching won’t change that.
My Response to Mia
Hi, Mia. Though we don’t know one another, your #NotMyMarch post has been getting a lot of attention, showing up in my feed thanks to friends who align with your sentiments.
In some ways, our lives may not be so different. I’m making some assumptions here, but I’m a college-educated, working mother living in a safe neighborhood adorned with tall trees. My daily routine is filled with typical suburban activities: my children enjoy warm breakfasts before school, and I either head to work or hit the gym. I even have the luxury of grocery delivery. As a single mom, my life has its challenges, yet I appreciate what my children and I have. I recognize that many women across this country lack even a fraction of what I possess, and their circumstances are often out of their control.
So, Mia, let me pose a question to you: When was the last time you had a genuine conversation with a woman whose life differs significantly from yours? Take your time to think about it.
You mentioned feeling like a “disgrace to women” for not supporting those who marched. It’s an intriguing way to frame your argument, perhaps appealing to those who secretly share your feelings and are looking for validation. It’s similar to saying, “I know I’m unattractive,” to receive reassurance from friends.
You assert that your voice is heard and that you’re not a second-class citizen. So, what’s the issue? You seem to have control over your life and body, a sentiment I can relate to. I, too, feel in control—I have my annual health exams covered by insurance. However, there have been times when I faced hurdles regarding reproductive health options. A few years back, my doctor recommended an IUD, but my insurance deemed it too costly at $1,000, while other forms of birth control were fully covered. I had to forgo the IUD, feeling frustrated that a medically suitable option was financially out of reach.
Have you ever postponed a routine health check-up because you needed to prioritize your child’s shoes over your health? Not everyone enjoys the luxury of free reproductive healthcare in this country. Have you ever ceased using birth control because the local clinic closed, and the next one is too far to reach due to your work commitments? For many women, decisions about healthcare come down to the limited funds in their wallets.
Have you experienced situations that put your safety in jeopardy? Instances of violence against women transcend socioeconomic boundaries. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their background. Women are sometimes assaulted in the very neighborhoods we live in, and when such violence occurs, it strips away their control over their own bodies.
You mentioned the ability to seek employment. That’s a privilege I share with you. But there are countless women who face barriers—lack of childcare, transportation issues, or skills needed for better job opportunities. Do you know anyone who struggles with these challenges?
You also mentioned your right to vote. I can relate to that, too. I volunteered at a polling place during the last election, helping guide voters through the process. I encountered many individuals from diverse backgrounds, all eager to exercise their right to vote. Unfortunately, I had to turn away several people due to strict ID requirements. Many of them were not “fraudulent voters,” but rather individuals facing systemic barriers to participation.
You say you feel heard, and I understand that sentiment. However, imagine if you faced the issues I’ve described—living in a world where your struggles went unnoticed, where decisions made by those in power negatively impacted your life without concern for your voice. It’s disheartening when people dismiss the experiences of others as poor choices without understanding the broader context.
You assert that the only person who can hold you back is yourself. I feel similarly empowered, but it’s crucial to recognize that not everyone has the same support system or opportunities we do. Many women grow up without encouragement or examples of success, leading them to believe that a better life isn’t attainable.
You may ask about the dire situations faced by women in countries like Pakistan or Guatemala. Yes, those realities are heartbreaking and deserve attention. However, it’s equally important to acknowledge the struggles of women right here at home.
I marched not because I feel marginalized, but because I can. I marched for women who can’t, even if they remain unseen. I marched for those who face challenges related to reproductive healthcare, economic stability, and personal safety. I even marched for you, Mia, even if you don’t think you need anyone to advocate for you.
Conclusion
In closing, it’s essential to recognize that while some may feel secure in their circumstances, many women are struggling in silence, and their voices deserve to be amplified.
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Summary
This article responds to Mia, a woman who dismisses the need for the Women’s March, by highlighting the disparities many women face today. It discusses issues like healthcare access, personal safety, and the barriers to employment that affect countless individuals, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and understanding among women.