CJ Hits the Democratic National Convention
Well, I was on my way to the airport Monday night to go to NYC for the US Open. On my way, I got a call from my producers at the Foxxhole (the Radio show that I do) and they informed me that I was going to be going to Denver for the Democratic National Convention. As a huge Barack supporter and a life long supporter of the Democratic party, I was both excited and honored by the invitation to witness something historical. So I went home, repacked my bags with my more "presidential outfits" (LOL) and headed to Denver.
Upon arrival into the Mile High City, I couldn't help but notice the electricity in the air. People seemed so happy and friendly. I saw the most diverse group of people. I saw black,white,pacific islanders, Asians, Hispanics, senior citizens, teenagers, children, disabled, war vets, celebrities and every person we have all become familiar with on CNN. I saw Hillary supporters for Obama showing their support for the Democratic Party. It was amazing. Everyone was wearing pins and waving American Flags. It was a beautiful sight to see. I got to interview Michael Wilson, a life long Republican and for the first time in his life, he was casting a vote for a Democrat. I also talked to the Mayor of Newark, NJ who expressed how excited he was to have his city show their support for Obama/Biden.
When I walked into the Pepsi Center, it was even more spectacular. It was packed and I saw what a melting pot was REALLY supposed to look like. Here we were all colors,ages,religions (I saw Jewish folks as well as some wearing turbans) getting along, shaking hands, taking pictures together, holding signs that said, "UNITY," and I couldn't help but feel touched. When I went to my seat and started hearing speech after speech, I wasn't bored... I was inspired. I laughed at the classic one liners from our feisty soon to be Vice President Joe Bidden, but also cried when he talked about his personal tragedy of losing his wife and child in a car accident.
I got chills and screamed and smiled when the super eloquent Bill Clinton spoke to us and looked at the screen and saw Hilary and Chelsea look like they were finally on board and the Democratic Party was united. Clinton said, "I LOVE JOE BIDEN," and after learning a little bit more about him, I did too! I was pleasantly surprised at how entertaining John Kerry was when he compared Candidate John McCain to Senator John McCain and he pointed out some serious inconsistencies. He was so funny.
Then there was a war vet who talked about getting injured in Iraq and how Barack Obama came to visit her in the hospital with no cameras and it wasn't for publicity. She talked about how the war in Iraq has absolutely NOTHING to do with who attacked us on 911. She was so strong. When she walked off we all saw she had 2 prosthetic legs. It was a powerful moment. Then Joe Biden's adorable wife came onstage and told him that there was a surprise person here to see him.
The entire place erupted when Barack Obama came out to show support to his Vice Presidential pick. People went nuts and I was one of them. It was just a beautiful night. Barack was such a powerful communicator and you get a real sense that he really means what he says and says what he means. Everyone that knows him will tell you he is just a really nice guy and a wonderful man. Being there felt amazing and it's something I will NEVER forget. It was a positive gathering, not a hate fest towards McCain.
There was an after party where Kanye West performed with a surprise appearance by my good friend Jamie Foxx. Once again, all races were there and partying together. The entire place sang along... old, young, white, black democrat and quite a few republicans... singing, "she ain't nothing but a gold digger, but she ain't messing with no--Brokey Broke!" Hahahahahaha! Classic moment!
-Claudia
My driver Hago, he is from Ethiopia and was so excited to finally be a US Citizen and be able to vote for the first time.He told me about horrible things still going on in Africa. Slavery is NOT over.
Everyone wore Barack/Biden pins. 2 for $5!
Just in case anyone wants to act up and do something stupid. The boys were ready to go. They had a slow day thank God!
With Sway from MTV in front of the CNN Center.
With Michael Wilson, a lifelong republican who supports Obama. He was the first to nominate him.
My interviewing skills at work. :-)
Hollywood was in the house! Actor Malik Yoba.
With my long time friend (since we were 14 years old) Jeff Johnson. He has a political show on BET called "The Truth." He's as smart and gifted as they come. Future Senator, I believe. He is amazing.
My playful interview with the Mayor of Newark. I asked him what kind of after party he would throw if Obama wins. LOL!
With Oprah's BFF Gayle King.
One of the greatest speakers of all time, and so far my favorite President. Mr. Bill Clinton. He was incredible!
OK, I look goofy here, but I just wanted to show you that I was really tearing up.
I am going to LOVE seeing a lot more of Joe Biden as VP. He is feisty, a fighter, a wonderful dad and has overcome so much. His mom was there and stole the show!
Obama/Biden 08!!!
OK, I totally lost it here. I can't explain. YOU just had to be there.
My co-hosts from the Foxxhole, The Poetess and Comedian Lou Dix who knew EVERYONE!
With one of my favorite journalist who is so underrated, Ed Gordon!
Yes we can!
Yes I can!
I'm so happy to be a part of this. Please go out there and Ba-Rock the vote! Or whomever your candidate is... it's your right as a citizen. Don't waste it!
With Rolland Martin from CNN! He was nice-did you see him dancing on CNN?
People are fed up and ready for a change...
Fellow New England girl, Keisha Whitaker (Forests's wife) and Me
Top dog at BET and film producer Reginald Hudlin
Jamie Foxx and CJ
Kanye West performs!
Poetess and CJ
On the red carpet.
Hilary supporters for Obama!
Asian American Pacific Islanders for Obama! See, I told you all types are here!
The end of a long but fulfilling day!
Watch this...
