While protesters gather in Washington DC for this year's Women's March, one of its founders, Vanessa Wruble, will be at her five-acre animal sanctuary near Joshua Tree in the Californian desert, stating, "I didn't even know it was still a thing."
Wruble recalls the frenzy leading up to the first Women's March eight years ago following Donald Trump's 2016 victory. The movement gained momentum and reshaped into a prominent symbol of "resistance" against the 45th president.
However, with dwindling energy post the last election and contemplation about the movement's impact and future, activists and Democrats are evaluating the mixed legacy of the resistance against Trump.
The Women's March, morphed into the People's March this year, is striving to rally various progressive groups to unite against ongoing attacks on women's rights, LGBTQ rights, and more.
Despite past successes in galvanizing political engagement, this year's event is forecasted to draw far fewer participants, reflecting a shift in the political landscape and priorities of voters.
Wruble, now focused on her animal sanctuary, believes it's time for introspection and reassessment of strategies, echoing a sentiment shared among former associates who have distanced themselves from the movement due to internal conflicts.
As Trump prepares to be sworn in for a second term following his recent win, reflections on the resistance movement's unmet objectives are surfacing, raising questions about its efficacy and impact.