Thousands join Women's March at Alberta legislature
'People are just standing up and saying enough is enough,' MP Linda Duncan says
With placards reading "women's rights equal to human rights," "feminism is another word for equality" and "Princess Leia sent me," thousands rallied at the Alberta legislature on Saturday for the Women's March on Washington in Edmonton.
The enthusiasm was undeniable at the Edmonton event, one of hundreds around the world organized after Donald Trump won the U.S. election last November.
"People are just standing up and saying enough is enough," Edmonton-Strathcona MP Linda Duncan told CBC News at the rally Saturday.
"We're not going to put up with the kind of misogyny we're hearing down south of the border."
During the U.S. election campaign last fall, taped conversations turned up in which Trump used vulgar language to describe his approach to women. He bragged about being able to use his fame to grope women without their consent.
But Duncan said Edmontonians aren't just marching because of Trump's words. "They're fed up with the misogyny they are hearing here even in Edmonton," she said.
Female politicians in Alberta have been attacked on social media in the past, including Premier Rachel Notley and Calgary-Northwest MLA Sandra Jansen.
Men, women and children joined the rally in Edmonton. Security at the legislature estimated 3,500 to 4,000 people were there.
"I'm super proud to be here marching with all my sisters and brothers across the world," said Elizabeth Thomas, who waved a sign that read "I'm with her."
Across the legislature grounds, Ellen Hanna pulled a pink hat more snugly onto her son's head.
"We're here for everyone who might feel marginalized in the future," she said.
"I hope there can be a little more hope in the future, rather than fear and worry."
Her husband, Richard Hanna, jogged their baby girl on his hip.
"I've got a beautiful daughter and a beautiful wife and just want to show them that they can have all the opportunities that anyone else can have in the world," he said.
Crowds continued to flock to the legislature building, as Edmonton's sister march wore on.
"It's nice to see that there are a lot of people that care just as much as I do," said Amanda Yu. "But hopefully it's more than just a march, hopefully it's something that continues on."
Duncan is confident the sentiment at Saturday's march will flow over into the year ahead.
"These kind of gatherings re-energize people," she said. "We just have to give them the tools to speak out."
With files from Zoe Todd