Day Without a Woman in Santa Cruz

Tucked away on the west end of town, Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing had its doors open to celebrate International Women’s Day.

“My uncles taught me how to brew in a time when not that many women were brewing. So I want to always pass on that knowledge to other women,” said owner and brewer Emily Thomas. “This year I took that idea and made it into, strong women do a lot of other things do, so let’s just celebrate that.”

Emily Thomas has been around beer her whole life. From home brews to becoming a business owner and professional brewer, Wednesday holds a special place in her heart.

“It’s just about looking at the positives that are happening in our industry, all these beautiful women who are brewing or making beer or making businesses around beer and creating this great community that we have,” added Thomas.

The day is also special to a lot of other people marching through the streets of Santa Cruz.

“That’s what this is all about, if we don’t stand up nobody will,” said community activist Candace Bradfield.

Hundreds of men and women marched through downtown Santa Cruz, standing for equality for all. Many marching said the issues of women’s rights, domestic abuse, the LGBTQ community and immigration have all become intertwined and International Women’s Day is simply about respect.

But for Candace Bradfield, who shared some powerful words about her personal experiences with domestic abuse and rape, Wednesday’s march means a whole lot more.

“To me, it was a release of my heart,” said Bradfield.

And as for Thomas, she’s just glad to be able to bring people together, even if it’s just for one beer.

“It’s a totally unique business,” added Thomas, “It’s not like a coffee shop or restaurant, it’s just a very casual center that builds community.”