Senator Bernie Sanders is set to deliver a speech for the opening night of the Women's Convention in Detroit from Oct. 27-29.
He will speak about how the progressive movement can move forward and achieve its priorities.
"I'm honored to join the women at the front lines of our struggle for economic, social, racial and environmental justice," Sen. Sanders said. "In January, millions of women came out in an extraordinary and unprecedented display of power and resistance.
"Now more than ever, we must support the leadership of women across the country and fight together to advance our progressive agenda."
Tamika Mallory, Women's March co-president, said Sen. Sanders has been a "fierce champion" of women's rights.
"We are honored that he will be joining us at the convention to lend his voice in support of women leaders from across the country who will be converging in Detroit," Mallory said. "We look forward to hearing from him on how he plans progressive policies that will empower and protect the most marginalized among us."
However, some people weren't happy with the organizers' decision to make Sen. Sanders a featured speaker.
Are. You. Kidding. Me?
He dismissed Planned Parenthood—PLANNED PARENTHOOD—as "the Establishment" when they had the gall to endorse Hillary.
— Pé Resists (@4everNeverTrump) October 12, 2017
You're doing an awful job of bringing women together
— Susannah (@susannahk89) October 12, 2017
“One of the most powerful Senators on ...women’s issues”?!?!? Are you kidding me????? @SenGillibrand is on the front lines. NOT Bernie.
— Jennifer Salter (@jsalt44) October 12, 2017
Women's March responded to the criticism on social media, saying they invited many elected officials whose schedules did not allow them to attend the convention.
"We all know how busy women leaders are, and we are grateful for the support of women like Secretary Clinton along with Senators Harris, Warren and Gillibrand," Women's March said in a statement.
The convention's theme is "Reclaiming my Time," and its programming will center around three topics: issue-based education, skills training and civic engagement.
The full list of speakers include:
Angela Rye, Amber Tamblyn, Symone Sanders, Stacey Abrams, Nina Turner, US Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA), Stephanie Schriock, Ai-jen Poo, Aida Hurtado, Lenore Anderson, US Representative Brenda Lawrence (D-MI), Stephanie Chang, Raquel Castañeda Lopez, Melissa Mark-Viverito, Sarah Eagle Heart, Rashida Tlaib, Brittney Packnett, Nomiki Konst, Winnie Wong, Stosh Cotler, Leah Greenberg, and the Women’s March co-chairs Bob Bland, Carmen Perez, Linda Sarsour and Tamika Mallory.
For more information, visit womensconvention.com
