On Tuesday night I lazily sat on my bed scrolling on Facebook, trying to avoid my homework. I wasn’t paying great attention to the posts until I came upon one that mentioned Bernie Sanders. Naturally, as a political science major, the name of any presidential candidate piqued my interest. I clicked on the link. The headline read, “Bernie Sanders to Hold Rally in San Jose Wednesday.” I screamed. (Luckily I was alone in my room, so I didn’t startle my roommate.) I immediately texted my friends and family because I could not contain my enthusiasm. The rally was to be held close to my school and I wanted to see a potential presidential candidate. I wanted to attend my first political rally. I wanted to experience the Bern.
I did not know what to expect from the rally. Yes, I was excited to hear Bernie Sanders speak, but I wouldn’t call myself a true supporter. As the upcoming presidential election approaches, I want to be an informed voter and further research the candidates’ stances on issues. So, attending a rally seemed like a logical thing to do.
The next day my friend and I drove to the rally. I missed all of my classes because when else would I attend a Bernie Sanders rally? After scouring for parking and eventually walking, we entered the premise. Interestingly enough, the rally location was not what one might consider ideal. Everyone was standing on dirt. There was very little shade. The bleachers looked worn-down and dusty. And to top it off, it was very hot. The location perfectly suited Bernie’s ideology. Rather than choose an air conditioned, extravagant ballroom in the wealthier suburbs of the Silicon Valley, Sanders selected a modest outdoor space in East San Jose.
There were older men with walkers. There were moms who dressed their infants in “Feeling the Burn” shirts. There were enthusiastic college students. There were people in suits. There were people in jeans and Birkenstocks. People of all races, socio-economic backgrounds and religions awaited their beloved candidate. Lively music filled the air as people enthusiastically talked amongst each other.
Finally, Bernie arrived sporting a cap that said “Bernie 2016” and a rolled up button shirt. He was shorter than I expected him to be as I struggled to see him amidst the crowd. He began his speech by acknowledging his supportive fan base. He reminded everyone that, due to their efforts, he defied the expectations of the political establishments and media. He began his criticism of Wall Street, an unfair campaign finance system and a corrupt economy. He expressed solidarity with marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ+ and African-American community. He condemned xenophobic sentiments within the country. He questioned how the wealthiest family in America, the family that owns Walmart, not only owns more money than the bottom 42 percent of the country but also pays its employees low wages. Amidst his criticisms, people angrily booed in agreement and expressed their frustrations. People were disheartened with the current political climate. They clinged to Bernie’s words, eager for hope, eager for change. Bernie was undeniably passionate in his speech. He seemed genuinely committed to his call for a new type of government, a government that better represented its people, particularly the working class and marginalized individuals. He expressed his desire for social justice. He provocatively concluded his speech with “we will win because only love trumps hatred.”
Despite one’s political affiliations, one cannot deny Bernie Sander’s humble nature and passionate ideology. I’m glad I witnessed one of his many fiery speeches and better understood his view on social justice. Bernie Sanders began the presidential race as an underdog, but is not a force to be underestimated.
