San Luis Obispo takes part in nationwide People’s March

This is a cross-published piece with Mustang News, more information can be found here.

The San Luis Obispo Superior Court held a rally advocating for women, immigrants and LGBTQIA+ communities on Jan. 18.

Several community members came to the rally in support, including North County resident Ray Ford.

“I think indeed all men need to be standing up,” Ford said. “Women’s rights are men’s rights as well. We’re tied together. I would not want anybody to disrespect my daughter and not take her opinion into account.” 

Arroyo Grande resident Laurie Stenson had similar opinions, saying “The American way is on life support.” 

“Here I am,” she said. “Superman couldn’t be here, so I came!” 

The “Rally for the People” event was organized by Planned Parenthood in collaboration with the Diversity Coalition of San Luis Obispo and Mujeres de Acción. The event featured speakers who shared personal testimonies.

This rally was just one of many nationwide marches in response to Donald Trump’s return to the White House. 

Cal Poly students, like animal science senior Andrea Campos, came to the rally to find a community following the results of the presidential election. 

“I feel like I’m just kind of out here because I feel like just wanting to find that sense of community after everything that’s been happening recently,” she said. “I feel like it can feel a little isolating, just kind of like you don’t really know what the next steps are.” 

There were no counter-protesters present and law enforcement was stationed nearby.