In my post-election article, I encouraged readers to use their compassion to take action and get involved. I cited the Women’s March on Washington (known as the Million Women March at the time of publishing) as a peaceful protest that had been getting a lot of media attention. According to the group’s Facebook page, 127,000 people have said that they are going. While this is an outstanding grassroots effort, I have concerns about the logistics of the event.

Above all, questions of security are at the top of my list. Multiple sources, like this article from The New York Times, have noted that the March has not acquired the necessary permits. No permits means no police to monitor activities or screen attendees. Who will be there to make sure no harmful items are brought to the event? Without permits, attendees may even face the risk of arrest.

I’ve also seen reports that the National Mall has been overbooked. One of the co-chairs of the Women’s March on Washington told Slate that the March may not take place on January 21, 2017, or at the Lincoln Memorial after all. With less than two months to the event, I would expect more concrete details from an event of this scale.

For anyone planning to go to the Women’s March on Washington, I urge you to take care of yourselves and any loved ones going with you. Look out for each other, be smart, and be safe.

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