Women’s March draws in young activists

Tara Djukanovic ’17, Addi Seybert ’17 and Becca Swanson ’17 march at the Iowa Capitol building in Des Moines Jan. 21. The Women’s March took place at locations across the country to advocate for women’s rights.

Jordan DeRoos
Three women chant at the Women’s March at the Iowa Capitol building in Des Moines. The Women’s March took place at locations across the country to advocate for women’s rights.

When Tara Djukanovic ’17 heard there would be a local Women’s March at the state Capitol in Des Moines, she was “super excited.” Together with Becca Swanson ’17 and Addi Seybert ’17, she headed downtown Jan. 21 to join the protest. “I wanted to take a stand against the trends in violence against women and the consistent misogyny,” Djukanovic said. “I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself.”

They arrived 30 minutes early and were already greeted by thousands of people. “It was so amazing to see the support in person,” Seybert said. “Everyone was super supportive. Even cars that drove by would honk and wave to show their support. I definitely expected more backlash.”