Waterford Township Welcomes Kamala Harris and Tim Walz: A Day of Voices and Values
WATERFORD TOWNSHIP – As the vibrant hustle and bustle of the past echoes through the now transformed Summit Place Mall area, residents and supporters gathered at the Oakland Expo Center to experience a significant moment in the upcoming elections. On that Friday, a spirited crowd came together to hear the impassioned words of Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate for president, alongside her running mate Tim Walz.
For Ann Haener-Maghran, a 62-year-old resident from Grosse Ile, this event marked a return to a place filled with memories. “It was bustling the last time I was here,” she reflected. Along with friends, she arrived early, eager to support a political cause she believes in passionately. “There’s a lot on the line,” she asserted. “Whatever I can do to help Kamala Harris get elected, I will do … We should all exercise our right to vote. I’ve never missed an election, small or large … However you vote, just vote.”
A New Generation of Volunteers
Among the crowd was Marika Peeples, a 49-year-old from Novi who expressed her apprehension about the future. For her, this is the first time volunteering for a campaign, and she feels it’s essential for everyone, no matter their age or race. “We’ve seen how it was with Trump and we do not want to go back to that,” she warned. She emphasized her concerns over bodily autonomy and the right to abortion, especially for future generations. “Young ladies coming up in this world should have the same rights that I grew up with,” she stated, passionately adding that immigration is also a crucial issue to address.
Others shared a similar sentiment. Jon Donegan, 63, from Davisburg, stated his belief in the vital role of voting in America. Despite being unable to volunteer due to work commitments, he still wanted to witness the event firsthand. “We have the privilege of hopefully honestly electing the officials that represent us,” he remarked.
Personal Stories of Advocacy
In the audience was Leon Benson, a Detroiter who spent over two decades imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. Now exonerated, he works as a re-entry specialist helping others navigate life after incarceration. He shared his hopes for criminal justice reform, expressing his support for Harris because of her accomplishments under the Biden administration. “It’s important for me to support women’s empowerment,” he conveyed, echoing Tupac Shakur’s powerful words. “Vote,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of standing against candidates whose values he cannot align with.
Engaging Young Voices
Among the attendees was 20-year-old Marcus Johnson from Southfield. He recently gained attention for his comments during a town hall following a vice-presidential debate, where he educated audiences on the role of a vice president. “Vote so we don’t have to fight the battles our parents and grandparents have already won,” he expressed, reminding everyone of the struggle for voting rights that many have faced.
A Mother-Daughter Showing of Support
Wearing matching T-shirts that read “Kamala, Aunty for the people,” Geena Nisula and her 9-year-old daughter, Nora, made a purposeful decision to attend the rally. “I really think it’s important for her to see a strong woman up there,” Geena said, emphasizing the significance of leadership representation.
Calls for Peace Amidst Political Rallying
Outside the venue, an insightful perspective was shared by 64-year-old Dan Lombardo, who held a sign stating “CEASEFIRE.” As part of the Uncommitted National Movement, he aimed to push for peace in ongoing global conflicts. Though he supports Harris, he voiced a desire for her campaign to do more regarding international peace efforts. “We don’t have it,” he lamented, reflecting on decades of unrest.
The gathering in Waterford Township was more than just a political rally; it was a community coming together to address pressing issues and share their hopes for the future. With election day approaching, every voice matters, and many are eager to make theirs heard.
