Polson librarian inspired by Montana march’s inclusiveness

By Renata Birkenbuel/for Missoula Current

HELENA - High spirits, good natures and positive vibes emanated from within the huge crowd at the Women’s March on Helena Saturday – a point well taken by a librarian who traveled from Polson to join in the festivities.

Kendra Mullison, who works at the North Lake County Library in Polson, couldn’t see the speakers on the steps of the state Capitol from her vantage point. Her sign depicted a librarian’s intellect and style – a cartoonish new president and the words, “Sense. Empathy. Humanity. Let’s Cultivate Some.”

She said she was struck by the inclusiveness of the first-ever grassroots women’s march in Montana's capital – one of dozens held across the nation and world in solidarity following Friday’s 45th presidential inauguration and a divisive election season.

“Seeing the general enthusiasm and celebration is great,” said Mullison. “There’s not a negative bone in this collective body. We’re not calling people out. We’re not attacking, but supporting women’s rights, LGBT and hopefully Native rights. I see every marginalized group of people represented here.”

Indeed, several Native American solidarity and water rights signs were spotted throughout the crowd, the latter in reference to the continuing Standing Rock protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline.