By Patrick Baron
SPRINGFIELD – Hundreds of women from across the state journeyed to Springfield to voice their support of progressive legislation and a financially responsible budget.
With over a dozen women traveling to the state capital, the call for equality can be heard in the Twin Cities. About 13 women from the towns were able to take a bus provided by Central Illinois Pride Health Center after the bus coming from Chicago had been filled; approximately 14 others carpooled. Bloomington-Normal Action for a Better Tomorrow chapter co-founder and administrator Sharon Chung explained a crucial reason for the march was to call support for the Equal Rights Amendment.
“We like now, that especially with the increased involvement of women in civic issues and political issues, that the time is now for the ERA to be passed and ratified in the United States Constitution,” Chung explained.
The March on Springfield comes about three months after the March on Washington, which saw thousands of people form across the nation calling for equality, women’s rights, and LGBTQ rights, among other progressive agendas – a sister march was also held in front of the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts. Today, activists show no signs of slowing down as time goes on. Chung explained she wants to see the passage of House Bill 40, which would allow women to receive legal and safe abortions in the state.
“It will safeguard legal abortions in Illinois in case Roe vs. Wade gets overturned, which is a very real possibility right now in the Supreme Court,” Chung said. “So we want to keep women’s right to choose safe and legal here in Illinois.”
The March hopes to call attention and support for women’s health issues, wages, and protecting childcare programs.
Patrick Baron can be reached at [email protected].
