From the paths of Boston Common, the park filled with the sound of marching footsteps and chants as the Women’s March took place on Saturday, March 8 from 12-3 p.m. in honor of International Women’s Day. The event brought together people from all walks of life to stand in solidarity for human’s rights, social justice and political change.

International Women’s Day, celebrated globally and annually on March 8, honors the social, economic and political achievements of women worldwide and raises awareness about the ongoing struggles for gender equality and women’s rights. The day encourages people to reflect on progress made and the work still needed to ensure equality everywhere.

During the Women’s March, thousands of demonstrators chanted about the meaning of democracy and expressed their concerns about the political issues, including the protection of women’s and LGBTQ+ rights, as well as actions surrounding Elon Musk and President Donald Trump.

Cassie Hall, who described herself as an advocate for national parks, trans rights and women’s rights, said it is important for people to take action in order to address the rising concerns about fascism and particularly those related to political change. She said that without active participation and awareness, these challenges will continue to grow.

“Our current administration is tearing everything apart,” Hall said. “If we’re not working together, we’re not going anywhere.”

Another person who attended the march, Weronica Zorua, agreed on the need for collective action. She said awareness needed to be raised about the frustrations people are experiencing in today’s political climate.

“It’s easy to get into a bubble. We just stare at our phones and we hear all the bad news. We think we’re all alone, facing our problems,” Zorua said. “Events like this help us to remember that we’re not alone.”

Michal May, a demonstrator who joined the march to show his support for his family and friends, expressed his determination to fight for rights, despite the political change in the United States.

“I wish people would just understand more about humanity. What’s going on right now in the United States is just inhumane,” May said. “I wish people just understood that what’s going on is just this fear mongering.”

May said he believes the march will help inspire future change.

“We’re privileged based on the opportunities we were given,” May said. “ I think this will have an effect on other states—they can see what we’re doing in order to hopefully make a difference.”