Short answer
Overview
The Million Woman March was a mass gathering of predominantly Black women held on October 25, 1997, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Organized by grassroots activists Phile Chionesu and Asia Coney, the march aimed to unite Black women around a common platform addressing social, economic, and political issues. The event drew participants from across the United States, converging on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for a day of speeches, performances, and collective affirmation. Unlike the earlier Million Man March (1995), which focused on Black men and was organized by the Nation of Islam, the Million Woman March was independent, secular, and centered the voices of everyday Black women. Its platform, articulated in a Declaration of the Million Woman March, outlined a comprehensive agenda for change, emphasizing self-determination, family, health, education, and economic justice.
The march is notable not only for its size but also for its decentralized organizing model and its role in revitalizing Black feminist activism. While attendance estimates remain contested, the event is widely recognized as a landmark moment in the history of Black women’s collective action. This article examines the march’s background, organization, platform, controversies, and enduring legacy.
FAQ
What was the purpose of the Million Woman March?
The march aimed to unite Black women to address issues such as economic empowerment, education, health care, political participation, and family stability. It sought to create a platform for action and to highlight the strength and leadership of Black women in their communities.
How many people attended the Million Woman March?
Attendance estimates vary widely. Organizers claimed 2 million participants, while the Philadelphia Police Department estimated 500,000. Independent researchers and media reports have suggested figures between 300,000 and 1 million. The exact number remains disputed.
Who organized the Million Woman March?
The march was organized by Phile Chionesu, a community activist from Philadelphia, and Asia Coney, a housing advocate. They led a grassroots effort without affiliation to major organizations, relying on word-of-mouth, flyers, and local networks.
How did the Million Woman March differ from the Million Man March?
The Million Woman March was independent, secular, and focused on Black women's issues, while the Million Man March was organized by the Nation of Islam and centered on Black men. The women's march emphasized a broad platform of social and economic justice rather than a single day of atonement.
What was the legacy of the Million Woman March?
The march inspired subsequent gatherings, including the Million Woman March organization's ongoing work and later events like the 2017 Women's March. It also spurred local activism, voter registration drives, and community programs addressing the platform's issues.
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