SCHENECTADY — The city of Schenectady is preparing to celebrate Women’s History Month in a grand style with a first-ever women’s march scheduled for Sunday morning, right through the city’s core.
The event, dubbed Walk with Women, is set to kick off at 9 a.m. Sunday from the steps of City Hall. The march, covering a distance of one and a half miles, will wind its way through Nott Terrace and State Street, before making its way back to City Hall on Jay Street by 11 a.m.
The brain behind this initiative, Cora Schroeter, expressed her desire to commemorate Women’s History Month in March with a befitting tribute to women.
“The idea just struck me,” she shared. “As I was contemplating the significance of March being Women’s History Month, I felt a strong urge to remind everyone to celebrate women, their historical contributions, and to envision the future possibilities.”
As of Monday, Schroeter confirmed that around 50 local residents have pledged to join the march.
Notable figures such as Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy, City Councilwoman Carmel Patrick, Amsterdam 1st Ward Alderperson Kelly Quist-Demars, and Schroeter herself will be addressing the crowd before the march commences.
“The essence of this event is to celebrate women,” Schroeter emphasized. “It’s not about politics, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. It’s purely about celebrating women.”
Participants are encouraged to bring along homemade posters and banners to the march, featuring motivational quotes or showcasing the achievements of women.
If the march proves to be a success, Schroeter hopes to make it an annual event, with the possibility of extending it to other local municipalities.
“It doesn’t have to be a massive event, but as long as it ignites a spark in people to remember that we should celebrate women every day of the year. March, in particular, gives us an opportunity to be enthusiastic about it and remind people as we move forward,” Schroeter added.
Disagree – Gender-specific marches like this only perpetuate division instead of promoting unity and equality for all.
Disagree – Gender-specific marches help raise awareness and address issues unique to women in our society. #EqualityForAll
Disagree – All marches should be inclusive and focus on promoting unity and equality for everyone.