Women’s rights rally to be held at South Park ahead of general election

photo by: Lily O’Shea Becker

Hundreds gather to listen to speakers at a rally for reproductive rights on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at South Park.

The public is invited to South Park for a rally advocating for women’s rights in the lead-up to the election on November 5.

The rally is set for Saturday, Nov. 2, at the gazebo on the east side of South Park, running from 11 am to 1 pm This date coincides with the national women’s rights march in Washington, DC, which organizer Judy Grant said was why organizers chose to schedule the event for that day .

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from a diverse lineup of speakers discussing women’s rights. The speakers include Melinda Lavon, chair of the Douglas County Democratic Party; Dena Sattler, candidate for Kansas Senate District 3; Rep. Barbara Ballard; Brooklynne Mosley, presumptive representative-elect for Kansas House District 46; Dr. Ashley Bloom; Amii Castle, attorney and professor at KU; Ursula Minor, president of the Lawrence chapter of the NAACP; and Sen. Marci Francisco, the incumbent running to represent District 2.

Sugarfoot Detour, a local band, will also open the rally around 10:45 am, and close it out around 1 pm

The rally will take place rain or shine. While some rain ponchos will be provided, attendees are encouraged to plan ahead. Bringing lawn chairs and/or blankets is also recommended.