I've always been of the school of thought to leave politics off the table of conversation. Perhaps it was because I was raised by seemingly liberal parents who vote Republican and I identify as a moderate who ultimately is a raging liberal. Either way, I have always kept my political beliefs known but quiet.
This year, I moved in with my dear friend Matt who is very politically charged. Over the years, I've seen him get riled up about politics with friends, parents, strangers, really anyone who will take his ear. I never envied this quality about Matt until he introduced me to Bernie Sanders and what is now looking like a true political revolution.
Last night, we went to Bernie Sanders' rally in Manhattan's Washington Square Park. We waiting in line for hours to get into the actual park, making friends and having conversations along the way. It was perhaps one of the nicest groups of people I've ever seen gather in New York City. See, I've marched the streets, walked for causes, and listened to speeches but I've never actually been to a political rally. This one was for the books.
Nearly 30,000 people came together sporting Bernie hats, stickers, t-shirts, costume heads, signs and nearly anything else to show their support. We shared tight quarters with Latino 30-somethings, Asian men who didn't speak English in their 50s, young black lesbian couples, a seemingly wealthy white family from Manhattan, and Indian children too young to vote with their parents, all who believe in the possibility of change and who totally #FeelTheBern.
While everyone was excited about every statement Bernie shouted through the microphone, there was one moment that truly stuck out to me. He was speaking about equal pay for women in America and how men need to support it as well saying we want "the whole damn dollar!" instantly coining a new catchphrase that I'm sure will follow him to the end. Whenever that might be.
As the election comes closer, I feel myself more inclined to share my political thoughts on social media and to be more active in an election that will surely make history one way or another - Trump, Cruz, Clinton or Bernie as it stands now. While I do #FeelTheBern, I must also say I've been a Hillary supporter for many years, even voting for her over Obama in the 2004 primaries. I continue to love and support Obama and believe either candidate will help carry on his legacy, but for now I'm sticking with my man Bernie. Regardless of the outcome, I'm certain that everything Bernie has ignited in American dialogue will continue even beyond the confines of the rally gates.