Tired of ads? Subscribers enjoy a distraction-free reading experience.
Click here to subscribe today or Login.

WILKES-BARRE — As hundreds of thousands marched on Saturday through the nation’s capital, and other major cities across the globe, a small group gathered in Kirby Park to stand in solidarity with the Women’s March movement, and to preach a message of peace and unity.

Cities such as Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Paris and London, held marches, rallies and protests on Saturday, according to the Associated Press.

In total, more than 1 million people took part in the Women’s March movement, with one common message — “we will not go away,” the AP reported.

While the focus of the global movement has been in opposition to President Donald Trump and the policies he and the GOP have been pushing, the marchers in Wilkes-Barre are asking Americans to put political affiliation aside and connect on a deeper level.

“This is not political,” Dr. Theresa Havel said.

Havel organized the Wilkes-Barre march, not in opposition to the new administration, but to “move past” the divisiveness in the country.

“We can work together,” she said.

Havel, who works as a motivational speaker, admitted this election was the first in which she did not vote, but that she does not want to see Trump fail as president.

“I hope Trump is the best president we’ve ever had,” Havel said.

For Havel, the march was more about people overcoming their differences to join forces and be a source of change in the world.

“This is an opportunity for change,” she said.

Albert Serino was out marching with Havel and said he shared Havel’s sentiment, adding that as a man, he wanted to show his support and stand alongside those marching around the world.

“I want to be out there as a male,” he said.

With the turmoil surrounding the election cycle and the divisiveness in the country, Serino said he believes it’s important to start showing support rather than tearing others down based on political beliefs.

“You just support and let people grow,” he said. “I’m here to support.”

Two children hold a sign at the front line of the marchers that lead thousands to the Georgia State Capitol during the Women’s March on Saturday in Atlanta. The rally and march drew thousands of attendees, including , U.S. Rep. John Lewis, who had been at odds with president Donald Trump leading up to the inauguration. (AP Photo/Ron Harris)
https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/web1_AP17021847282178-1.jpg.optimal.jpgTwo children hold a sign at the front line of the marchers that lead thousands to the Georgia State Capitol during the Women’s March on Saturday in Atlanta. The rally and march drew thousands of attendees, including , U.S. Rep. John Lewis, who had been at odds with president Donald Trump leading up to the inauguration. (AP Photo/Ron Harris)

By Brigid Edmunds

[email protected]

Reach Brigid Edmunds at 570-829-7242 or on Twitter @TLNews.