After waiting in line for almost three whole hours, we were finally allowed to enter the Liacouras Center, which is Temple University's indoor stadium. From basketball games to concerts to presidential rallies, Temple's stadium is really home to it all.
My friends and I had heard rumors that Bernie Sanders was going to come to our school, but a few weeks prior to April 6 (the date of our rally), the rumors came true. Bernie Sanders was coming to our little university! And there I was, standing in the freezing cold, waiting to see our future president. (Hopefully!)
We waited another three hours inside the building, which was slightly more bearable, as people trickled inside. The line for the rally was circled around the whole stadium and then down a few blocks. By the time everyone was inside and seated, the whole place was filled.
And yet, everyone was so polite and caring. I did not feel claustrophobic or unwelcome in the least while I stood there in a crowded room with my fellow Bernie supporters. I made a couple new friends and we hung out while we waited. I even learned how to make a paper crane! I have never felt so accepted by a large group of people as I did at the rally.
When Bernie came on stage, it was almost surreal. I've never been big on politics in the past, but since coming to college, I've realized how important it is to be aware of how things are changing around me. While I still call my mom and ask her how to get a stain out of one of my favorite tees, I am considered an adult by law and I know my mother can't vote for me- that choice is mine to make -therefore I should inform myself on the things that will affect me, such as who our next president is.
Bernie's words were blunt, but compassionate. While he spoke, I found myself becoming interested in things that I previously hadn't been interested in or had never heard been spoken about so seriously before. He spoke about financial issues, women's rights, education, and racism among other things.
I felt as if everyone in the room, whether they were on the floor with me or up in the highest seats at the top, was unified because we all believed in and wanted the same changes to be made within our country. I felt even more connected when my friends and I all were able to shake Bernie's hand at the end of the rally!
Before the rally, I didn't really care too much about politics. The only reason I honestly went was because it was something to do and I thought it would be an exciting opportunity to see a possible president in my lifetime. Now, after the rally, I have gained a new appreciation for the importance of politics. I feel incredibly inspired. Even though I am not as deeply invested into politics as some people are, the rally really sparked my interest. I feel as if now learn more about how my country is run because it is important.
