Just after sunrise on January 20th, about 30 SIPA students gathered on the 4th floor of the International Affairs Building with their tools of change—colorful posters, sharpies, and glitter glue.

They represented student groups from across the SIPA community: Women in Peace and Security, Gender Policy Working Group, Spectrum, Latin American Student Association, SIPA Students of Color, and Women in Leadership.

Together, they were preparing to participate in the Women’s March 2018.

To many, this march was a symbol of continued resistance. The first Women's March was a worldwide protest on January 21, 2017, that advocated for legislation and policies regarding human rights, including women's rights, immigration reform, healthcare reform, reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, racial equality, and freedom of religion. Most of the rallies were aimed at Donald Trump, immediately following his inauguration as President of the United States, largely due to his statements and positions that were regarded by many as anti-women or otherwise offensive.

A year later, that spirit lives on. The future policy makers, practitioners, researchers, and human rights defenders from SIPA joined forces to march again for what they believe in. Although they all advocate for women’s rights, their reasons and passions all different.

Here are their stories, in words and pictures: