I didn’t realise how much of a weight that was until the day of the march last year. We packed the car with ourselves (partner, kids and I!) and posters that I had made. It was a miserable day, the rain just kept on coming. We parked and made our way to the Customs House, to join other people with children. We waited in the lashing rain, handing out snacks liberally to head off the onslaught of ‘I’m tired, I’m hungry’ etc from the kids. They will forever associate the March for Choice with an endless supply of treats! As we waited, I was anxious, nervous, excited, and unsure all at once. We kept watching up the quays for a sign of the march. We heard it before we saw it – drums beating, megaphones leading the chants and people, thousands and thousands of people, all shouting for me and for my right to choose. The ARC banner was at the front, stretching the width of the road, holding behind it a wave of sound, support, solidarity, empathy and righteous, righteous anger. It came towards me and the impact of seeing that many people, all gathered together, all marching towards me, felt like the biggest, most meaningful embrace I could ever have wished for. I don’t have the words to describe how incredibly overwhelming that moment was. I cannot find a way to do justice to the profound impact it had on me. The tears came and I wept with the emotion of it. To hear and see that many people coming towards you, in support of you and your rights, validating your choices and acknowledging the injustices that you have suffered is a wonderfully empowering and affirming thing. No stigma. No shame. Over 3,000 more women have travelled for abortions since I made my own journey. I’m marching this year for every one of them, for my children, and for the many who have yet to travel as we wait for a referendum. It’s time to repeal the 8th. It’s time to acknowledge our autonomy and human rights. Join me?!”
Why I’m Marching – Solidarity | Abortion Rights Campaign Ireland
