We early Feminists often learned too late about the infiltration tactics of those opposed to us. There was the charming new group member with whom women felt instant intimacy — and who asked personal and political questions about the other members of the group. There was the “sister” who started gossiping about other women: “Have you noticed that Jenny takes up too much time talking about her personal stuff?” “Do you think that Annette is a just a little power hungry and bossy?” There was the new member who almost immediately advocated breaking the law.
A powerful show of solidarity engenders closeness and warmth between the participants. It’s easy to confuse those heightened feelings with a deep connection. Take your time to get to know the fabulous woman you just met. And remember the words that were posted over the phone in my 1965 urban anarchist collective: Loose Lippies Bust Hippies.
Establish contact people outside the march, have a lawyer in place, know who your bail contributors will be. Carry two phones, just in case one is lost or taken. Talk with friends about your plan. Listen to what they tell you.
Wear layers and have extra socks, sweater and gloves in your backpack. Be prepared to have to walk longer and further than you might at first have planned. A thermos of something hot is a good idea. Be sure to eat breakfast before the march — lots of protein and whole grains for fuel. Remember that local restaurants are going to be jammed.
Bring what you need. If you are diabetic, bring your supplies. Asthmatic, be sure you have your inhaler. On medication, bring enough. Tell your affinity group what meds you have with you and what you might need.
Curb your impulse to trust; at the same time, don’t go hostile. Pay attention. And, honor what the march leaders tell you to do.
Rather than burying your nose in your phone, look up, listen hard, sense the energy of the people around you. Be ready to change strategy at a moment’s notice. But, before you do, check in with your affinity group. This march is about We, not I.
I broke my kneecap three-plus weeks ago. I won’t be able to march even here in Flagstaff. My doc and p.t. have told me that I must not fall. But, I’ll be watching on my computer and I guarantee you that I’ll be filled with gratitude. And pride. 