SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — More than 200 people gathered at the Capitol building on International Women’s Day to voice their concerns and advocate for women’s rights.

The event, organized by Erin Van Brooker, drew local and federal politicians, including a surprise appearance by Senator Dick Durbin.

"We want to stand up for women everywhere," said Van Brooker. "We want to stand up for women here in Springfield. We want to stand up for women across the country, across the world."

The protest, which had been postponed earlier in the week due to inclement weather, benefited from clear skies and a large turnout. Many attendees traveled from hours away, drawn by word of mouth.

"It helps get the message across because it’s an exponential thing," Van Brooker explained. "If more people come and then they tell their friends and then more people come and they tell their friends and their family, then more people learn about it and then we garner more and more support and then it’s just more recognition across the world."

State Senator Doris Turner addressed the crowd, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the struggle for women’s rights.

"It’s really nice and great and absolutely wonderful for us to come out here and gather once a year to celebrate International Women’s Month, that’s absolutely fine, but we are under siege and our fight is 365 days a year," said Turner.

Senator Dick Durbin expressed pride in the community’s activism.

"I’m proud of my hometown, I’m proud of all of you coming out today and keeping this flame burning as we fight this battle," said Durbin.

Van Brooker noted the sense of community and empowerment she felt from the event.

"I love it. It makes me feel less alone, it makes me feel more powerful as a woman and makes me want to continue doing this," she said.

The rally was part of a global celebration of International Women’s Day.