Creators Of Women’s March Announce Women’s Convention Activist Gathering In Detroit

http://www.womensconvention.com/
Source: Women’s Convention

In anticipation of the midterm elections this November, creators of the January 2017 Women’s March have announced the Women’s Convention, scheduled to take place October 27-29th at the Cobo Center in Detroit, Michigan.

Women’s March co-president, Bob Bland, referenced the riots in Charlottesville in his announcement of the convention. “It’s not just enough for us to mobilize in the streets. Bringing us all back together, I think, will truly be a historic turning point for the women’s movement and all of the most marginalized groups in this country who, as you saw from Charlottesville, are under attack.”

The movement emphasizes democracy, a rejection of white supremacist leadership, women’s equal representation in government and the importance of grassroots organization for change. The convention also seeks to bring together women who have led and participated in parallel feminist groups and educate new leaders of progressive activism. 

Bland also mentioned Heather Heyer, the activist killed Saturday while protesting the neo-Nazi riots in Virginia. Bland said, “(Heather) is exactly the kind of person the Women’s March attempted to pull in. We need to answer her mother’s call through continuing to fight, to not allow this violence or weak condemnation to send a signal to white supremacists.”

The website describes a weekend of “workshops, strategy sessions, inspiring forums and intersectional movement building.” Tickets to the event are marked at $295 for full access, and hosts are expecting a turnout of at least 5000-10,000. Information regarding scholarships, group discounts, and reduced admission will be released in the next month.

Regarding the selection of Detroit to host the event, Women’s Convention organizers gave this candid response:

“Detroit is a beautiful city, full of historical and political significance, and a multitude of lived experiences — a perfect setting for women, femmes and our allies seeking to strengthen our growing, intersectional movement. Many of the issues that led us to march in January 2017 are starkly visible in Detroit and its surrounding areas: economic inequality, environmental injustice, de facto segregation, ICE raids, violent policing, and overall unequal access and opportunity. At the same time, Detroit is home to a rich musical history, a vibrant art scene and a long and radical history of grassroots activism — something that continues today.

Just like our movement, Detroit cannot be compartmentalized. It is important and valuable to learn from and alongside local organizations, advocates, and citizens within this city while we build and nurture our movement on a national and local level.”

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