Women's March on Washington - Ottawa Chapter

Today was the big day. I went nuts and made my own pussy hat (as you can see in this photo).  I look like one of the cast from "Gilligan's Island", sadly more "Lovey" than "Ginger".  Oh well.

Got there at 11 and there was a small crowd, an extremely white crowd but hey, it's Ottawa! However, as time passed, the crowd surged beyond the initial 3K or so.  It was quite fantastic and the groups represented, diverse. We then marched down Elgin to Laurier.  I guess they couldn't get permission for Wellington Street which is where Parliament is.  Currently, there is so much going on in that neck of the woods with LRT construction, 2017 celebrations and general Ottawa road chaos!  Anyway, once we reached the Bronson St. auditorium, we stood and looked back to see that the march was still strong all the way to Elgin.  That's around 9 or 10 blocks!  Lots of support from people trapped in their cars and folks participating from their balconies.  The best salute was all the ladies in the hair salon waving at the window!

The rallying point at City Hall.

So many clever signs!

"Thanks, Mr. Mao Zedong".  No red book but a pink hat!

There was a fantastic send off by this group.

I tell you, I've already given blood, sewed a couple of feminine hygiene packets for girls in Africa and now marching in solidarity.  'Gawd will this madness never stop!!'  Maybe 2017 won't be shite after all.

Back in the saddle again.

2017, a big year for me and Canada.  Since there are so many fun and interesting things going on, I thought I get some "skin in the game" and begin blogging again.  

I understand that it very quaint and "olde timey" to blog when you can Instagram but I like to write and photograph/illustrate...so there!

Been back 2 years now and have settled back into life.  Honestly, it's good to be home and be able to participate in normal citizen-like actions. By that I mean volunteering or helping out with an election.  Actions that are going to become increasingly precious.

So my reaction is to get involved in my own chicken shit way.  This Saturday there is an associate Women's March on Washington being held up on Parliament Hill.  I might be able to even drag G along with me.  I mentioned it to my colleagues who looked a bit askance at me and not for the first time!  I don't know if I'll go full on and wear the suggested "pussy hat" but you never know.  I'll keep you posted!