One of WILPF US’s values is sisterhood and solidarity—and that’s what WILPF members showed on International Women’s Day. Thousands across the US joined their local Women’s March on March 8, calling for a feminist future in which “anyone and everyone has the freedom to lead empowered lives in safety and security in their bodies, in their communities, and throughout the country.” No surprise that WILPFers were there in the streets, calling for peace, justice, and accountability.
Below, WILPF’s Palo Alto Branch and Greater Philadelphia Branch share recaps and photos from their participation in International Women’s Day events.
WILPF’s Palo Alto Branch Honors International Women’s Day at Weekly Vigil
By Cherrill Spencer and Judy Adams, WILPF Peninsula/Palo Alto Branch members
Every Friday from noon to 1 p.m., members of WILPF’s Peninsula/Palo Alto (CA) Branch hold a silent vigil on the public sidewalk at the corner of El Camino and Embarcadero, outside Palo Alto’s Town and Country shopping center.
On Friday, March 6, the group gathered with other residents to protest the illegal war against Iran and to advocate for women’s full equality—marking an early celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8. Several activists, many of whom are shown in the photo above, stood at the busy intersection, displaying their signs to the occupants of thousands of cars that passed by during the hour-long vigil.
War is a feminist issue. Women and children bear the brunt of retaliatory violence during conflicts, often instigated by men.
Our WILPF US branch condemns the bombings of Iran by the US and Israel. We express our deepest sympathy to the people in Iran and throughout the region affected by this needless and destructive escalation.
WILPF Greater Philadelphia Branch Rallies for a Feminist Future with Movement Allies
By Tina Shelton, WILPF Greater Philadelphia Branch
The WILPF Greater Philadelphia Branch participated in a march and rally for International Working Women’s Day, joining the local CODEPINK contingent. Tina Shelton addressed the crowd at Rittenhouse Square. Through actions like this, WILPF US branches reaffirm their ongoing commitment to peace, justice, and the advancement of women’s rights—demonstrating that collective action remains essential in shaping a feminist and equitable future for all.
