CLUW contingent gathers in Garfield Park prior to the March on Washington

"The energy was electric...we all felt it.   This was a true demonstration of the power that women possess when we come together on one accord. I feel blessed to have shared in that moment and I am looking forward to the movement."  Karen Bellamy-Lewis, IFPTE

As we prepare for CLUW’s upcoming convention with the theme of “Women: Taking It To The Streets” the most inspiring event encapsulating that theme this year was the Women’s March on Washington.  CLUW members participated enthusiastically in DC as well as throughout the country.

A few of their impressions are expressed here and in the 2017 Women's March Photo Gallery, which we invite you to view.

“It was electrifying. The energy was unbelievable. I shared the experience in DC with my 18 year old daughter. We spent many hours with 2 women who were in their 70s and this was not their first march in DC. They told my daughter, this may be your first but it won’t be your last. You will always be responsible to stand up for your rights, to stand up and fight back. January 21st showed me we have numbers, we have the power. It is now the time to organize, mobilize and to win back our country. I think they woke a sleeping giant and then poked that giant in the eye.”  Cori Gambini R.N., CWA

“What meant the most to me was how many young people were there, and how many of all ages have never attended a women's rights march before.  A giant force has been awakened and unleashed!  I feel very optimistic they won't let us go backwards.” Kathy Black, AFSCME

 “I helped as a Peace Ambassador at the San Jose, CA March - and I am happy to report peace making skills were not needed. In 40 years of participating in rallies, dating back to Vietnam, I have never been to a more enjoyable, celebratory, peaceful gathering advocating for change. In a city not known for March turnouts (with San Francisco so close by) San Jose knew 2 hours before the start that expectations would exceed the most optimistic predictions - this despite rains that have been torrential in California (just a bit that day). BIGGEST MARCH in the City in over 20 years ago. Close to 30,000 marchers of all genders, religious affiliations, nationalities, color, ethnicities, political philosophies, ages (including a proud group of 4 generations of women), disabled helped by able-bodies, etc, were all on the same page - WOMEN'S RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS, adding that it also applied to underserved rights. No arrests, no violence, and new friends were made. It was truly a celebration of diversity & human rights. It has COMPLETELY renewed my faith and my resolve. I LOVED IT. Si se puede!” Nancy Biagini, CWA

“There was such a coming together of so many people from all walks of life to make a stand. I was overwhelmed with the feeling of family at this march. “ Stephanie Reynolds, AFSCME

CLUW President Connie Leak invites you to “Come join us in Detroit where we will continue to ‘Take It The Streets’ and where that fightback spirit evidenced in January will be soaring as we make it known – NO Turning Back!”