Women's March Draws Thousands To Greensboro

Saturday's event coincided with others across the country and was one of at least 12 gatherings in North Carolina. Triad demonstrators were there for a variety of reasons, but many say they want to send a message of equality.

The march began at Government Plaza and proceeded to LeBauer Park where protestors listened to speeches by community members and performances by local musicians.

Emily Poe-Crawford says, "I'm here because when the history books write about this happening, Donald Trump being the president, I want it to be very clear that there was resistance."

For some it was their first march, while others were more familiar with political activism. Dr. John Thompson said he was there, "to support the ladies, support young people, and support the past. We marched a long time ago in the 60's and we are just here to encourage all Americans to keep the fight, keep the faith and march on. I'm here also to support my nieces who are young ladies and we have several godchildren that we're here to support, and of course I'm here to support my wife."

Michele Larson carried a peace sign with the quote, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world," by Ghandi. "We carried it with lots of anti-war protests starting in 2001," she says, "and so it's been in New York, it's been in Philadelphia, it's been in Washington, D.C. We have to put up a fight and resist this new presidency and all that it stands for. We have to care about our poor. We have to care about equal justice for everyone."

In addition to women's rights, marchers emphasized the importance of healthcare. Arthea Perry says, "I believe that we have some people who are totally irresponsible, that have been elected, and don't have our best interests at heart when it comes to all of the people of these United States of America...that White House is the people's house, stands for all people. I'm also here because healthcare for every human being is vital."