Editor’s note: Sources from this article were attendees and organizers of Valley Women’s March. Some participants did not disclose their last names therefore only their first names were included in this article.
A diverse crowd of all ages gathered in front of the Benton County Courthouse early morning, Jan. 19, to participate in the Heart of the Valley Women’s March, a local event held in solidarity with the Washington D.C. Women’s March.
The atmosphere was both solemn and spirited as one woman rhythmically played a drum with her hands, her voice rising in song with the familiar refrain of “Let It Shine.” As the melody grew, the sun broke through the clouds, casting a soft glow on the determined faces of the marchers.
From young children clutching signs to members of Generation Z and seniors in their 70s and beyond, the group braved the crisp 33 degree air to stand together for their shared cause.
Alongside the road, individuals stood firm, holding their signs high, undeterred by the chill. Some were handing out hand warmers along with additional signs. Together, their presence created a moving portrait of resilience and community.
Two 16-year-old girls were amongst the group, Nora and Sol.
“What’s holding me through is to remember that oppressed communities — women, people of color, gay people — have existed literally for all of time, and we’ve endured … , and we’re not going to stop existing,” Nora said.
Dina from Albany was inspired by her neighbor to attend the march. She brought signs she used when she attended the Women’s March that took place eight years ago in Washington D.C. when Donald Trump first took office.
Reflecting on her participation, Dina said she hopes for greater awareness in people and encourages others who feel strongly about a topic to rise to action.
“Just continued awareness, maybe other people who feel strongly but aren’t as likely to step out and join a march, join a rally, write a letter, donate money, will see that there are many people who feel the same,” Dina said.
“We all do (feel) a little bit helpless at times, and I don’t like that feeling,” Dina said “An inauguration is going to happen on Monday that I am kind of sick over, to be honest, but we can’t give in. Can I make my voice known? Can I tell people? I want to tell my granddaughters what I did today.”
At 10 a.m., Esther Baas, one of the organizers for the event, took a stand on the steps of the courthouse. She began by thanking everyone in the community for their attendance.
“I wanted to join in solidarity to voice my concern in the direction that we’re moving in this country when it comes to human rights,” Esther said to the crowd. “I am just so proud of Corvallis for stepping up and joining (Washington D.C. protestors).”
After picketing at the courthouse, the marchers proceeded along Harrison Boulevard and Adams Avenue, their chants of “Who’s street? My street” ringing through the crisp air. The procession ended at Valley Rock Gym, where the keynote speakers delivered their remarks.
The first keynote speaker, Dharma Miza — also known as Frisky the Transgender Reindeer. Miza is a local artist, activist and educator on cultural health. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and Public Health at Oregon State University and serves as the president of the Mid-Willamette Transgender Support Network.
Miza emphasized the importance of standing together and fostering inclusion, drawing on her experiences in her career.
Joining her was Barry Jenkins, the current president of the Linn-Benton NAACP, whose remarks emphasized unity and the ongoing fight for justice that they spoke on.
Together, the speakers both highlighted messages of inclusion and resilience, commenting on the protests happening around the country. The audience was encouraged to “stand together in solidarity.”
Following the speech, attendees Barbara and Michelle reflected on the day’s significance.,
“As freedom-loving, patriotic Americans, it is our right to assemble. And these are places where we can exercise that right,” Barbara said.
“Everything that’s going on, what’s coming in with the next administration, which we are opposed to, so we’re making a stand … We want to make a difference. And this is going to continue as we move on,” Michelle said.
