Flash Mob Dances to End Violence Against Women [Photos/Video]

Montclair joined activists around the world on Valentine’s Day by standing up and dancing for women’s rights. 

“If you don’t know the moves, just party,” said a voice over a loudspeaker to more than 60 people at the corner of Church Street and N. Fulteron Avenue on Thursday evening. 

Women, men and children of all ages gathered on Church Street to participate in One Billion Rising, part of the 15th annual V-Day, to end violence against women and girls. Music played over speakers as the activists filled up the entire sidewalk between Petit Paris and Tapastry Restaurant.   

“I think that people need to talk about these kinds of issues out in the open and there is not really a forum that people can do that, so this is a fun way to do it,” said resident Ana Maria Cardenas who helped organize the event.  

Some passersby walking and driving along Church Street on that cold Valentine’s Day evening stopped to watch the dancing, while others joined in. 

“Movement is what really connects us all,” said Maya Milenovic Workman, artistic director at the Montclair Academy of Dancing and Laboratory of Music which sponsored the event.  

In between dancing, many people spoke over the loudspeaker about their own experiences and voiced support for the movement. 

“I am representing the men,” said resident Julio Martinez to loud applause. “I am standing up against violence against women. I was raised by powerful, encouraging, inspiring women ....”

Marie Saint Victor, who attended the gathering with her son, said it was important that young children be there that night so they can carry on the effort in the future.  

“It was really important that I share this event with my son,” said Victor, “because he is the future generation that will make the decision that violence against women and girls is unacceptable once and for all."

Workman said participating in the worldwide event was a start, but there was much more work ahead. 

“Unless we all connect ... nothing will really happen,” said Workman. "It is really about communication between all of us — women, men, young, old — and to not stop [talking] about this."