This Friday marks the beginning of a new era–President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn is as the 45th president of the United States of America at the US Capitol Building.  The day begins with the musical guests and opening remarks followed by the swearing in of President-elect Trump at 11 am (EST).  The inaugural parade will follow the President-elect’s swearing in and the inaugural ball will take place later that evening.  The inauguration will be broadcasted on local US television networks as well as streamed online by networks like CNN and FoxNews. Â
However, there are a few other things going on on and following this monumental day.
On January 20, Inauguration Day, from 8 to 10 pm (EST) the Anti-Inauguration will take place at the Lincoln Theatre in Washington.  The Anti-Inauguration is based off of the sole idea: “Why Trump won, what he’ll do, and how we can fight him.” The event is currently sold out but will live stream all of the speakers.  These speakers include: Naomi Klein, Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, Anand Gopal and Owen Jones.
Photo from NYMag.com.
On January 21, the Women’s March on Washington (WMOW) will take place at 10 am (EST) at the intersection of Independence Avenue and Third Street SW in Washington, DC.  The March’s website stated: “The Women’s March on Washington will send a bold message to our new government on their first day in office, and to the world that women’s rights are human rights. We stand together, recognizing that defending the most marginalized among us is defending all of us.”  This comes as backlash from the recent election cycle and comments made by the president elect.  This march is expected to be peaceful and principles have even been outlined condemning any violence that could take place during said event. Â
Clothing brands like, The Outrage, have also partnered with the march to create clothing options that can be worn during the march.  These include the march’s logo, “The Future is Female” and various quotes from President-elect Trump during the election.  Although these items may not arrive prior to the walk this upcoming weekend, supporters are still encouraged to purchase them as each item of clothing benefits a different organization, like Planned Parenthood or UN Women. Â
Photo from Blogspot.
WMOW events will be taking place around the country as well for those who cannot attend the march in Washington on the 21st.  The WMOW Charleston will take place at 11 am (EST) on January 21 and begin at Liberty Square.  The march will continue to the Charleston County Judicial Center on Broad Street.  Participants can still sign up online via the event’s Facebook page.  Similarly, a rally and strategy summit will take place at the South Carolina State House.  Full event details can be found on the event’s Facebook page. Â
The final days of President Obama’s presidency and the days leading up to President-elect Trump’s inauguration are going to be filled with emotions, varying opinions and lots of protests.  However, it’s important to remember in the coming days and weeks that violence is never the answer and, regardless, we have to work together for a better tomorrow.  So, what will you be doing this week to make your voice heard? Â
Tag @hercampuscofc in any of your protest posts in Charleston, DC or around the country for a chance to be featured on our Instagram and Twitter pages. Â
Main photo from Wikimedia Commons.