As I walked to Washington Square Park, I felt jittery. My heart was beating fast; I was excited, hopeful. When I got close enough to hear the upbeat music and see the crowds of people, I was in awe. Thousands were already gathered in the park and I was there over an hour early. I immediately felt a sense of community while looking at all the smiling faces.
Attendees had to check in to the rally via text. For confirmation that you successfully checked in, you received a picture of Elizabeth Warren’s dog, Bailey, which is also my dog’s name. I already knew we were off to a great start.
Before moving to New York City for college, I lived in South Carolina, where the idea of thousands of people lining up to watch Elizabeth Warren speak was unthinkable. I was completely immersed in a sea of blue in Washington Square Park, and I couldn’t have been happier. Complete strangers would strike up meaningful conversations with one another. It was beautiful and touching to see a group so united when the country feels so divided.
After over an hour of anticipating Elizabeth Warren’s appearance, I finally heard the crowd erupt into cheers. I was fairly far back in the crowd, but the sight of a bright purple blazer was unmistakable. There she was. It still feels surreal.
Listening to her words was one of the most empowering moments of my life. She was encouraging, enabling, brilliant, inclusive, and funny. The appreciation she had for each and every one of us was beyond genuine. I felt like I was a part of something so much bigger than just a rally. I am a part of a revolution. Or, as Elizabeth Warren always says, I am a part of the fight.
I am so excited to see what else Warren has in store for her campaign trail. I will continue to follow her plans and propositions for our country throughout this coming election season. And hopefully, come November 2020, the first election in which I am able to vote, we will finally elect the first female president. I can’t wait.