Gender equality and an end to violence against women were the focus of a rally at Victoria Park on Wednesday.
Roughly 150 Londoners attended the gathering for International Women's Day, joining together in solidarity through song, poem, and uplifting speeches.
"London has always been a leader in terms of its activism and it is no different on International Women's Day," said Wendy Goldsmith, rally organizer. "There is strength in sisterhood and we are fighting misogyny and oppression all around the world. We can stand together and together we are strong."
Goldsmith said, with Donald Trump in the White House, the need for this type of rally has never been greater.
Londoners gather in Victoria Park for International Women's Day rally, March 8, 2017. (Photo by Miranda Chant, Blackburn News.)
"He's a scary boy. We are already seeing the effects of his policies spilling over into attitudes and values in our communities," said Goldsmith. "He seems to give permission to people to spread hate and fear. So it is more important than ever that we all stand up."
Chief Lesley White-Eye of the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, London city councilor Tanya Park, and New Democrat MP Charlie Angus were among a dozen speakers at the rally.
Alice Teply, who works at Women's Community House, was one of many at the rally to sport a purple arm band to show her support.
"My work is supporting women and children who are leaving abusive situations so I thought it was especially important to attend this rally," said Teply. "It's about working to end violence against women and working towards equality. Women have come a long way but these are things we need to work on."
Teply took note of the large number of men also in attendance.
"It's not just a women's issue, it's important for men to work along side of us," said Teply.