Everyone involved in organizing the ‘Women March in Seneca Falls’ event scheduled for Saturday knew it had the potential to grow incredibly large.
The event, which is scheduled for Saturday was previewed by two organizers. Former Auburn Mayor Melina Carnicelli and Betty Bayer, joined Josh Durso on the Inside the FLX podcast to talk about how that event blossomed into arguably the largest one featured the historic community over the last few years.
There was a presidential visit a few years ago, the annual events — like the ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ 5K and festival, which draws more than 5,000 to Seneca Falls for one weekend in December — but Saturday’s march in solidarity with women around the U.S. could eclipse all of those.
“We do need to talk about the issues,” Carnicelli said during the 30 minute conversation. She explained that the entire concept for the march in Seneca Falls came one morning, just a day after committing to go to Washington D.C. over this weekend.
Ironically, both Carnicelli and Bayer had planned originally to attend a march in Washington.
Bayer was coaxed into taking part in the event by Carnicelli. Both talked about how those organizers, who have dedicated an enormous amount of time to coordinating this event — have played a crucial role.
For Bayer, who is a longtime professor at Hobart & William Smith Colleges in Geneva, involvement was a no-brainer. “The historical context is important,” she explained citing the role that Seneca Falls has played since 1848.
“We need to elevate the discourse around important issues,” Carnicelli explained. The goal of the event as a whole is to shed light on a historical moment — but also show solidarity with those who are fighting for a variety of issues. “We also must play a role in addressing the misrepresentation of various issues,” she continued.
The rally will feature representatives, speakers and musical guests from around the region. Syracuse Mayor Stephanie Miner will be the featured speaker during the afternoon. Around 30 people are expected to speak, or perform during the day’s event.
When asked what the call to action is around this event, Carnicelli conceded that it comes down to vigilance. “Be vigilant each-and-every day. It’s about joining nationally and elevating discourse across party lines.”
Speaking to her experience in municipal government, Carnicelli said that she’s leaned on that moving through this process. “I’ve organized a lot of events, but this one is special,” she concluded.
Check out the Women March in Seneca Falls on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @WomenMarchSF.
Listen to the entire podcast by using the media player in the middle of this article, or by clicking here.
