Democrats host Women's March in Staunton

A local political group hosted a rally on Saturday morning which coincided with the third annual Women's March in Washington.

The SAW Joint Democratic Committee, which represents party members in Staunton, Waynesboro and Augusta County, hosted speakers at the front steps of the Augusta County Circuit Courthouse.

The purpose, according to organizers, was to bring attention and a voice to issues like the Equal Rights Amendment, LGBTQ rights and the role of women in local and state government.

"To have people to start discussing the importance of these various issues is great," Carolyn Dull, the Mayor of Staunton, said. "I know there are other speakers here to talk about various issues, whether it's domestic violence, health issues, all of that — so I think it's a great opportunity."

After all the speakers delivered remarks, those in attendance were given the opportunity to add their own voice.

Planning for the event started a year ago when Abi Brand, President of Young Democrats of SAW, reached out to the Staunton Democratic Committee.

"I sent Beth Daisey, the SAW Democrat Chair, a text that said what do you think about a Women's March next year in Staunton," Brand, said.