Windsor Women's March a silent vigil focusing on gender-based violence

You might see bright lights on both the Detroit and Windsor riverfronts for the 2019 Women's March Thursday night.

Windsor organizers have collaborated with Detroit, Mich. organizers to make sure their events happen at the same time. 

"Here we are, meeting at the international border," said Pat Papadeas, Windsor's organizer. "The march has been, from the very beginning, a global movement."

She added that a theme for the movement has been one of women as waves.

"Waves are stronger than walls. Waves can take down walls," said Papadeas, pointing out that talks of walls have dominated a lot of conversations lately around international borders.

This year's march focuses on gender-based violence and will be a silent vigil. It began Thursday evening at the giant Canadian Flag on Windsor's riverfront at 5 p.m.

"We're asking participants to bring one picture of a woman who they want to honour," said Papadeas. "At the end, we will say her name."

According to Papadeas, women in Canada are more likely to experience violence than men.

Locally, she said violence isn't the only issue, adding that economic security and financial health are other concerns.

"One in four women in Windsor live in low-income situations," said Papadeas.

'It was a little more emotional than I had anticipated'

6 years ago

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A silent march took place in Windsor and Detroit at the same time.

Papadeas also said she recognizes that the women's movement hasn't always been as inclusive as it could have been.

"We recognize that traditionally we've excluded non-white, non-heterosexual, impoverished women," said Papadeas.

"Inequality has disproportionately impacted women of colour ... members of the LGBTQ community."

The march began Thursday evening at the giant Canadian Flag on Windsor's riverfront at 5 p.m.