International Women’s March parades through downtown

More than 1,000 women marched in solidarity to raise awareness of women's equal rights, advocate for reproductive choice, and seek health care, better education and fair wages.

As the International Women's March began, the marchers stood before the San Antonio Grand Hyatt Hotel chanting, "Hyatt, escucha! Estamos en la lucha!" for "Hyatt, listen! We are in the struggle!" and "Hyatt, Hyatt! What do you say? Stop abusing your workers today!"

The march started at 10 a.m. Saturday at the corner of Bowie and Market streets. Volunteers, mothers sisters and daughters chanted and waved signs expressing their anger at unfair treatment.

With hardship on their faces and sadness in their voices, they chanted, "Tear down the walls, tear down the walls. Injustice for one is injustice for all."

The marchers passed downtown businesses, hotels and bystanders who smiled, pointed, laughed, waved and sympathized with demonstrators.

"Buena Gente" Ray Salazar looked over his shoulder and said, "I'm a man and didn't understand, however I now understand and see the injustice, and women need a voice and I'm here to scream for them."

The demonstrators ended their march at Plaza Del Zacate, also known as Milam Park between Santa Rosa Children's Hospital and Market Square.

Performances by the Organix Group, Suzy Bravo, Kiawitl Xochitl entertained the marchers.

Guest speakers, including Betita Martinez who was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in race relations.

For more information, call Esperanza Peace and Justice Center 228-0201.