I am Barbara McCord, a Marylander born and bred. As such, I treasure the Chesapeake Bay and the unique environment that shapes our culture of respect and tolerance. My exceptional liberal arts education reinforced my world view of Christian humanism.   I had varied work experiences, most always as a writer. Prior to retirement I was fortunate to join with amazing people working on behalf of those with critical health needs and disabilities. My volunteer work relates to disability issues and brings me close to children with significant needs. At 72 I live with physical disabilities and my health is fragile.

I march because I am convinced that Trump and his allies together – both within and outside our nation — are an existential threat to the republic and our way of life. The 2016 election showed the triumph of ignorance brought on by decades of cynical Republican efforts to degrade public education, manipulate the vote, and instill fear of “the other.” While many believe there will be a return to the bad old days of the 50’s, I believe it is a return to the 30’s and fascism where the rights of the minority are not protected and the few in power will rape the nation’s resources for their own further enrichment.  Because all branches of our government are now in the hands of people who deny the critical role of the federal government, we are likely to experience an onslaught against the progress that enlightened thinking has brought to life. There is a multitude of issues that concern us all. Important issues. But in my view, the health of the planet is paramount. If you can’t produce food, can’t breathe the air, can’t drink the water—nothing else really matters. I grieve for our children and grandchildren and the loss of the country that I knew as a place of pride, of respect, of justice.