I first heard about the event through my aunt, who sent me a link to a Facebook group mere hours after the news broke about what happened in Charlottesville. I knew that when I got to campus that I wanted to get involved in activist events, so without hesitation I found myself in front of the Mountainlair at 8 o’clock surrounded by people holding signs and candles. I made small talk with other attendees, and even got interviewed by a news station while I waited for the planned event to start.

Ever since the election, I had been feeling rather helpless when it came to what was going on in the world. I wasn’t able to vote in the last presidential election, and without the ability to vote I had absolutely no idea what I could do to use my voice. So once I heard about this event, I knew I had to go.

Even though it was a result of a domestic terrorist attack, I’m glad that I got to gather together with people who felt the same way I did. The people that I talked with were so kind and thoughtful, and they really made the gathering feel safe and also hopeful.

A few people gave speeches, like Morgantown City Councilor Ryan Wallace, Evan Hansen, who is running for the House of Delegates in Monongalia County, and Roark Sizemore, a WVU student and local activist. After they spoke, the floor was open to anyone who wished to speak their mind, which I thought was amazing. Among these guest speakers was a preacher from a local church, the vice president of Mountaineers for Progress, and several Morgantown residents who wanted to offer their support, their stories, and their advice.

However, not everyone that was in the area was completely supportive. A person on a motorcycle shouted insults at a veteran speaker about how Trump won. Only two people tried beeping to drown out whoever was speaking. What was most important about this gathering of people was how they kept sharing, kept spreading the message of hope, but also reminded all of us in the audience how we should not just attend the vigil and then do nothing the next day.

This experience was inspiring and hopeful, despite the solemn occasion. The speeches that were made were eye opening and served as a reminder that the battle for equal rights is never truly over. This gave me hope that so many people still care that live in the area I’ve moved into, and are still fighting for what’s right. I’m proud to be a part of a campus that is open and accepting, and I hope to be able to get involved in more events like this.