Two Oregon Women Embark on Cross-Country March for Women's Rights

Emily Waugh and Amy Peck begin walking from Salem to Washington, D.C. to raise awareness

Apr. 1, 2026 at 6:47pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting two female figures walking alone on a rural road at dusk, their forms illuminated by warm, golden light and surrounded by deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet determination and the personal sacrifice of their journey.Two women embark on a cross-country march to raise awareness for women's rights, their determined silhouettes set against the fading light of day.Salem Today

Two women from Salem, Oregon, Emily Waugh and her mother Amy Peck, have set out on a cross-country march from their hometown to Washington, D.C. in an effort to protest for women's rights and inspire others to join their cause.

Why it matters

The march comes at a time of renewed activism around women's issues, including access to reproductive healthcare and equal pay. By undertaking this lengthy journey on foot, Waugh and Peck hope to draw national attention to their message and galvanize support for their campaign.

The details

Waugh, 32, and Peck, 58, began their trek from Salem on Sunday, April 1st. They plan to walk the roughly 3,000 miles to the nation's capital, stopping in towns and cities along the way to spread awareness and encourage others to join them. The two women say the walk is a symbolic act to show their dedication to fighting for women's rights.

  • Waugh and Peck set out from Salem, Oregon on Sunday, April 1st.

The players

Emily Waugh

A 32-year-old woman from Salem, Oregon who is embarking on a cross-country march to Washington, D.C. to protest for women's rights.

Amy Peck

The 58-year-old mother of Emily Waugh who is joining her daughter on the cross-country march from Oregon to Washington, D.C.

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What they’re saying

“We can no longer sit idly by while our rights are threatened. This march is our way of taking a stand and showing the country that women will not be silenced.”

— Emily Waugh

“My daughter and I are committed to walking every step of the way to D.C. This is a sacrifice, but it's one we're willing to make for the sake of our future and the future of all women.”

— Amy Peck

What’s next

Waugh and Peck plan to continue their march across the country, stopping in towns and cities along the way to spread their message and encourage others to join them. They hope to arrive in Washington, D.C. by late summer.

The takeaway

This cross-country march by two determined women from Oregon highlights the ongoing fight for women's rights and the willingness of activists to make personal sacrifices to advance their cause. Their journey has the potential to inspire others to take action and stand up for the issues that matter most to them.