Women's March draws large crowds in worldwide demonstrations for equality

Catholic women made sure their voices were heard among the millions who gathered at marches and rallies in cities and towns across the United States and around the world on January 21 to stand up for women's rights and send a signal to President Donald Trump the day after his inauguration about a wide range of issues, including immigration reform, health care and religious tolerance.

Crowds of more than 500,000 — about double what organizers had expected — jammed Washington, D.C., to the point that the march portion of the Women's March had to be abandoned and instead turned into a series of rallies and spontaneous mini-marches around the city.

In Boston, Chicago and dozens of other cities, crowds exceeded organizers' expectations.

Hundreds of women religious also joined the demonstrations and rallies, identifying with causes and issues that reflect their charisms and lifelong work. The Sisters of St. Joseph had a strong presence at the Women's March in Washington, D.C., with more than 130 sisters, associates, ministry partners, and friends and family making their voices heard.