They Came, They Saw, They Rallied!

Obama supporters rallied while representing different areas of Buncombe County.

“It is that promise that has always set this country apart — that through hard work and sacrifice, each of us can pursue our individual dreams, but still come together as one American family, to ensure that the next generation can pursue their dreams as well.”   ~ Excerpt from Barack Obama’s 2008 Presidential Acceptance Speech

by Johnnie Grant

As the Ray Auditorium of the YMI Cultural Center filled to near capacity, people from all walks of life came to share in a defining moment in history. There they waited, together — black, white, young, old, singles, couples, homeless, and families; they looked like America!

As everyone watched
and listened, the synergy in the room was that of a spirit of
togetherness, a phenomenon that could not be explained. The rally took
on a life of its own as the participants waved signs representing
different areas of Buncombe County, and cheered for each of the
speakers who confirmed Senator Barack Obama’s presidential nomination.

“These
people are fired up, and looking for change,” said Isaac Coleman. “I
think the Democratic Party has nominated a candidate who is more than
qualified for the position; he’s smart, and a true and honest visionary
— willing to move this country forward.”

People made themselves at home and listened intently while viewing the Democratic Convention.

Senator
Obama’s role as the first African American to be the presidential
nominee of a major political party has already established his place in
history. His come-from-behind victory was propelled by his ability to
articulate a vision of a better and finer America, one that could and
should fulfill its promise, that all people truly are created equal.

The
enthusiasm he generated along the campaign trail, from the Iowa
caucuses to his final win in California, could be felt, and will be
essential to pushing his candidacy forward over the weeks remaining
until the election.

If the
rally at the YMI was any indication, the enthusiasm, aspiration, and
“audacity of hope” that Obama wrote about in his autobiography, are
alive and well in Asheville.