The Democratic National Convention, held in Chicago Aug. 19-22, was overflowing with hope, unity and talk of a brighter tomorrow. In a sea of blue, the United Center was filled with stands of people cheering and raising signs, “We ❤ Joe,” “Vote,” “Coach Walz” and “K-A-M-A-L-A.” Each night had a different keynote speaker, President Joe Biden on the first night, Michelle and Barack Obama on the second, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz on the third and Vice President Kamala Harris on the final night. 

Not only were politicians, delegates and celebrities in attendance, U-High students and alumni came to participate in the convention, being able to see, first hand, the outcomes of what the Democrats promise in their campaigns. 

Ainsley Williams, a senior, attended the first and the last nights of the convention. Many different elements of the convention struck her. 

“You could really tell that the overall theme of the event was hope and optimism for the future,” Ainsley said. “I was also surprised by how patriotic it was. In the crowd we waved American flags and chanted ‘USA, USA.’ It was just a really celebratory event, and I left feeling really excited and hopeful for this new candidate and the country.” 

2024 U-High alumna Leila Battiste found her time at the DNC to be inspiring and motivating. She worked with Access Control, an extension of Secret Service and security, to check IDs and secure different areas. During the convention, she met the Democratic vice presidential candidate, Mr. Walz, and U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York. 

Leila was amazed at the bipartisan efforts at the DNC and how the idea of unity was throughout the whole convention. 

“I also saw Republicans there, such as Kellyanne Conway,” she said. “What struck me the most was that although their (Republicans’) presence was a bit striking, everyone remained civil and cordial, highlighting the unity of America that the Democratic Party is attempting to rebuild.”

Senior Juliana Walker was able to attend the last day with her father and was thrilled by the opportunity to witness the historic campaign of the first woman of color presidential nominee for a major political party and the impact that is having on America.

“The ideas of ‘hope’ and ‘the future’ were articulated well and spread throughout each speaker and message. I would also say that the idea of ‘unity’ and ‘togetherness’ was quite present as well,” Juliana said. “The idea of ‘unity’ reminds people that things do not have to be as black and white as they may feel because Kamala Harris is looking out for every single American in this country, not just one side or one group.”