Life
On International Women's Day, women around the world took the day off from paid and unpaid labor. In a society that devalues women's work, organizers hoped that a strike would open people's eyes to the unrecognized contributions women make every day. Judging from the most powerful photos from the Women's Strike, they can consider their goal accomplished — and although it remains to be seen whether its momentum can be kept up in the long term (something we'll obviously try to do), the strike made it clear that many, many people are not content with the current state of gender equality.
The Day Without a Woman, as Women's March organizers called the strike in the United States, was marked by events around the country. In the afternoon, House Democrats walked out to hold an event on the steps of the Capitol (although they later went back to work), while protesters in New York gathered outside the Trump International Hotel as a jab at the current president and his administration. Businesses shut down, classes were cancelled, and even if they couldn't take the day off, participants wore red to demonstrate their support for the strike.
Needless to say, March 8 was an important day in feminist history. Here are some of the most powerful images from the Women's Strike.
1
House Democrats Stage A Walkout
In the above photo, Democratic representatives stage a walkout in honor of the strike.
3
Organizers Are Arrested
Three organizers of the Women's March movement — Linda Sarsour, Tamika Mallory, and Carmen Perez, among others — were arrested for blocking traffic outside the Trump Hotel on Wednesday afternoon.
4
Inside The Police Van
Following their arrest, Women's March organizers tweeted from inside the police van.
5
Raising A Fist In Support
A protester from the Bronx raises her fist in support at a rally.
6
Undocumented, Unafraid
Protests featured plenty of powerful signs.
7
She The People
Seriously, so many clever signs.
8
Lady Liberty
America is founded on the idea of liberty and justice for all, and that includes all the people who are not cisgender men.
9
End Rape Culture
Rape culture deeply affects women, men, and people of all genders.
10
Rosie The Riveter Meets Princess Leia
Feminist illustration Rosie the Riveter met the equally-iconic Princess Leia in this protester's sign.
11
Honoring Our Predecessors
Feminism isn't a new idea, and the current movement owes so much to those who came before us.
12
Feminism Is Patriotic
Pink pussy hats have become one of the most enduring symbols from the Women's March.
13
Women Will Be President
A new take on an old adage.
14
Strike
Simple yet effective.
15
Women Resist
To achieve gender equality, feminists will have to resist and persist.
16
Where Is Justice?
Justice is usually depicted as a woman — just saying.
17
Women Strike Back
Striking back has never looked so cool.
18
Hear Us Roar
New York City was the site of some of the largest protests.
