As women march on Washington on Saturday, members of the Bermuda public will be meeting at Queen Elizabeth II Park in a show of solidarity.

A Facebook page for the event describes it as a family-friendly, non-violent and non-partisan gathering to show support for women marching in Washington DC in support of women’s rights.

Victoria Markus, who is supporting the event, said yesterday they were thrilled to see the public embrace the event.

“We are thrilled with the support we’ve got so far. It started with friends and now hundreds have expressed a desire to stand in solidarity and support the concerns of women of all races, background and identities.

“We are all individuals with different perspectives, but most agree that any residual anti-female attitudes left over from the election absolutely must be countered. The needs of women and families are extremely important to the wellbeing of society.

“I am not a politician but rather a progressive woman. I wish we didn’t even have to organise such an event. That being said, we welcome anyone of any gender who supports the mission of the Women’s March to join us on Saturday.”

Meanwhile, Katie Howarth of the Bermuda Business and Professional Women’s Association, expressed the organisation’s support for both the march in the US and the local event.

“Our organisation is rooted in empowering women from all backgrounds to reach their highest potential,” she said. “Women cannot achieve their potential if their rights are not recognised and their voices not heard.

“Saturday’s event serves as a reminder and opportunity for reflection on how we treat and promote women here in Bermuda and worldwide. We will certainly be encouraging all of our members to come out and support this event”

The event’s Facebook page states: “There will be no formal speeches, just like-minded individuals connecting in a casual and supportive atmosphere.

“We stand with the champions of human rights, dignity, and justice who have come before us and with the Women’s March in Washington DC. We support the advocacy and resistance movements that reflect our multiple and intersecting identities. We call on all defenders of human rights to join us. We work peacefully while recognising there is no true peace without justice and equity for all.”

The DC march, taking place the day after Donald Trump takes office as president, is expected to draw as many as 200,000 people while sister events are scheduled to take place in all 50 states and several other countries.

The local event is scheduled to take place tomorrow between 9am and 11am at Queen Elizabeth II Park.