WS Chronicle

Armed with signs and their right to vote, more than 100 women and men laced up their walking shoes and marched to the W.R. Anderson Recreation Center to cast their ballots last weekend during the Women’s March to the Polls and Party at the Polls.

The march sponsored by Democracy NC, Moms Demand Action NC, HARRY Veterans, and several other organizations, started at Emmanuel Baptist Church on Shalimar Drive. Before taking to the streets, event organizers discussed the importance of the upcoming election and voting. Organizers also discussed the six constitutional amendments that are included on this year’s ballot and why citizens should vote against all of them.

Several lawmakers have spoken out against the amendments in recent weeks, including former governors, senators, and others.

Linda Sutton, a coordinator with Democracy NC, said the purpose of the march was to get voters excited about casting their ballots and providing important information before they do.  Sutton said she felt the information session was necessary because many people don’t understand how the amendments will affect them.

“We need that education because the amendments are so vague. They don’t give you all the details and tell you what it’s really about, so we had to educate the voters,” continued Sutton. “We’ve been going across the state in different communities, large and small counties, educating people about these constitutional amendments.”

After the educational session, citizens bundled up in their coats and hats and marched side-by-side to the early voting site on Reynolds Park Road. Upon arrival they were met by dozens of members of the Forsyth County Association of Educators, who also held a rally and march on Saturday morning.

From miles away, one could hear the battle cries of the two groups urging people to vote. After casting their ballots, citizens had the opportunity to enjoy free food, music, and face painting for the children. Several people applauded event organizers for their effort to get citizens out to vote. While marching on the sidewalk with her family, Jennifer Ertl said she decided to participate because it’s time for change.

“I wanted to get behind the vote for everyone. I don’t want to see people disenfranchised and I wanted my kids to see that I care about this election,” said Ertl. “This is my first time being involved in any kind of election activities, but I feel like our country needs a change. We need to move away from the bullying and the power struggles and we need to move towards democracy.”