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"Suffragette City," a performance devised by artist Lara Schnitger, took to the streets at around noontime on Saturday. The march started at the Hammer Museum—they're including this performance as part of the museum's "Bureau of Feminism" initiative—and wound through the streets of Westwood.
While the performance was overshadowed by a massive protest that was happening at the same time in downtown, the procession was no less attention-grabbing. There were marchers bearing "Slut Sticks," which Schnitger made to comment on the politics of women's attire. And there were children wearing hooded smocks that were decorated with large eyes. The procession rounded back to the museum, where participants and visitors alike were treated to a performance by musician Miya Folick.
On Friday, Schnitger wrote to LAist to explain that, "This work is a response to the entire culture of patriarchy, not one person." That "one person," of course, is a reference to Trump.
As noted by our photographer Perhansa Skallerup, the prevailing vibe on Saturday was one of positivity. "People seemed hopeful as opposed to vitriolic or defensive which these things can devolve into sometimes," said Skallerup. He also noted that passersby were inquiring about what, exactly, the procession was all about, and that police were on hand to provide assistance as the marchers went through the crosswalks. It was the presence of the children, however, that may have been the most uplifting aspect of the procession. "It was nice to see kids involved, letting them get a taste of peaceful protest without anything violent erupting," said Skallerup.
"Suffragette City" is a two-day event, with happenings going on till 5 p.m. at the Hammer Museum today.
