Wedding gowns will once again fill the streets of New York on Saturday, Sept. 26, as thousands gather for the 26th Annual Brides’ March, honoring Gladys Ricart and others whose lives have been affected by domestic violence.
Ricart, a Dominican woman from Washington Heights, was killed by her abusive former boyfriend Augustin Garcia on Sept. 26, 1999, the day of her wedding. Garcia was sentenced to life in prison. Her death became the catalyst for a movement that has continued for more than two decades.
The Brides’ March has since grown into a public demonstration centered on remembrance, survivor support, and calls for stronger responses to intimate partner violence.
“Every step honors a life,” said Lethy Liriano, executive director of the Brides’ March and Ricart’s niece. “When we fill the street, we send survivors a message: You are seen. You are not alone.”
This year, organizers are expanding the movement beyond New York with 26 marches planned in 26 cities around the world. The coordinated effort is intended to raise awareness about domestic violence while drawing attention to organizations and advocates working directly with survivors.
The march also serves as a space for families and survivors to remember those lost while calling for greater access to services and prevention efforts.
“Survivors and families need more than remembrance. They need action. Court accompaniments, crisis response, advocacy, prevention work directed at men and young people, and more resources can prevent the next act of violence,” Liriano said.
“This year’s march represents the chapter for our movement—we are now focused on building the systems of care, safety, and accountability that every survivor deserves.”
Organizers are encouraging participants to attend with relatives, friends, colleagues, faith communities, and school groups. Attendees may also bring photographs or the names of loved ones they are marching in memory of.
Participants are encouraged to wear wedding gowns or white or black clothing in honor of Ricart and other victims of domestic violence. Wedding gowns will be available at Holyrood Church, 715 W. 179th St. in Manhattan, while supplies last.
The march is open to everyone, regardless of what they wear.
Registration and additional information are available through https://bridesmarch.com/. Updates can also be found through Brides March NYC on Facebook and Brides March on Instagram.
