Gearing up for ‘Day Without a Woman’

PHILADELPHIA — Organizers of the January Women’s March are calling for women to take the day off and encouraging them not to spend money Wednesday to show their economic strength and impact on American society.

“A Day Without a Woman” is the first national action by organizers since the nationwide marches held the day after President Donald Trump’s inauguration that drew marchers into the streets in protest against misogyny, inequality and oppression.

Wednesday’s event coincides with the U.N.-designated International Women’s Day, and organizers say they want to “stand with women around the globe” who supported their efforts Jan. 21 with similar protests in cities around the world.

Spokeswoman Cassady Findlay said organizers were inspired by “Day Without an Immigrant” protests last month. She said the action is aimed at demonstrating how women’s paid and unpaid work keeps households, communities and economies running.

“We do all of this and get paid less than men, get sexually harassed, get inadequate family leave,” she said. “We provide all this value and keep the system going, and receive unequal benefits from it.”

Unlike the Women’s March, Wednesday’s protest focuses on the absence of women, who are being steered to local rallies and community groups and away from work or shopping in stores or online. Organizers also are asking women to wear red to signify love and sacrifice.

It is unclear how many women will participate. More than 1 million people turned out nationwide for the Women’s March.

The median income for women was $40,742 in 2015, compared with $51,212 for men, according to census data.

Palmira Figueroa, an organizer of the Seattle women’s march, said the group recognizes many women cannot take the day off.

“It’s just a big ask,” said Figueroa, a fundraiser for an environmental group who does not plan to go to her job.

“We also want to be in solidarity with our community, knowing that many who can’t decide tomorrow they can’t work,” she said.

AMANDA VOISARD/FOR THE WASHINGTON POST It’s unclear how many people will participate Wednesday. Over 1 million turned out nationwide for marches Jan. 21.