Locals can join national minute of silence at Apartment Lounge

The video begins with a shot of stairs -- a symbol of rising up. The theme continues as the band BETTY sings their anthem, “Rise.” Women and men of all kinds raise their first fingers, then stand up. They are standing, said local organizer Adriane Johnson, for equality.

On January 21, women and activists from across the U.S. will be marching in Washington D.C., in state capitals, and in cities and towns in every state. Many West Michigan organizations, such as Fountain Street Church, are sending busses of locals to participate in the Women’s March on Washington. But what about those who can’t travel, or are tied by jobs or family? Can they participate?

They can. At 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time, everyone who stands for equality can stop what they’re doing, rise if able, and observe one minute of silence. Participants can connect to the national events through the 1@1 app. Those near Grand Rapids can join with others at the Apartment Lounge to observe the minute of silence together. Johnson, who is organizing the local viewing party, said, “What drew me in was seeing the video: how people showed support for unity by raising their first finger. This included men, children and women from all backgrounds regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, ability status, etc. It's just one simple act to express that you stand against hate and discrimination toward anyone.”

The event at the Apartment will feature a live feed of BETTY (made famous by their appearances on Showtime's The L Word) performing “Rise,” followed by comments on nonviolent protest by interfaith minister Dr. Jacqueline Lewis. Nationally-known feminist Gloria Steinem will then lead the countdown to 1:00.

“The moment of silence is one powerful minute to connect, reflect and recommit to making that American ideal a reality of one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all,” Johnson said. "I intentionally invited each and every group that I am a part of.” Johnson said that the Apartment Lounge is an LGBTQ establishment, and it’s a place where everybody is welcome. “Because of the uncertainty of our country's future and our own well-being, I really hope this event will unify people more.”

Johnson encouraged people to participate in whatever way they are able. “People can capture a photo or video of themselves participating and post it to the site. It means a lot knowing that you're not alone in the fight against hate and injustice.”