Well...I guess I can't say that anymore. The entire day was a powerful and amazing experience. The fact that a crowd of an estimated 500,000 people could gather with a common message and be supportive of one another was amazing to behold. Everyone was helping everyone else. People tripped and fell and a dozen would rush to help. I fell at one point and numerous people helped me. People were patient as we slowly moved through the crowd, people said excuse me as they moved or had to push by. People shared pink "kitty" hats, food, water, and fellowship.
Actually the only rude person I encountered that day was a counter-protester who yelled in the face of one of my friends.
I think that the moment which stands out the most for me was before we even got to the protest. The metro was packed, we all pushed as many people as we could onto the train. I felt bad because I had my camera harness on with two cameras and I was trying really hard to make sure they weren't pushing into anyone. I was talking to my friend abut plans for the day. A woman in front of me turns to me, she takes my hands and says to me, "Thank you for marching today. I am from Turkey and my country is in trouble, we can not speak against our government or we will go to jail. It is important that you express your freedom." I told her thank you and God bless you. She then held my hand until she got off the train and hugged me...I cried, my friend cried, and I'm sure I was not alone. I wish I had taken her photo, but I felt like it wasn't necessary, it's a moment I will never forget.
Stand together, love one another, support one another. When we cooperate and stand as one, it's amazing what we can accomplish.
Here I am sharing some of my images from this day. Please note that there is some strong language on the signs, so be aware before proceeding.
If anyone is interested in any photos for news or other protests, please contact me.
Peace be with you.
-Cara Walton
No comments:
Post a Comment