On the last night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Vice President Kamala Harris accepted the Democratic Party’s nomination for President as the first black woman and person of South Asian descent to be a major party’s presidential candidate.
Witnessing this historic moment and proudly representing the ATU was International President John Costa, a DNC Delegate for New Jersey, Executive Vice President Yvette Trujillo, Secretary-Treasurer Ken Kirk, and International Vice Presidents Natalie Cruz and Ray Greaves.
In a moving, eloquent, and powerful speech, Harris made her case to the American people, laid out her optimistic vision of the future for our country in contrast to Trump’s “dark” agenda, and evoked a sense of patriotism and promise.
“With this election, our nation has a precious, fleeting opportunity to move past the bitterness, cynicism, and divisive battles of the past. A chance to chart a new way Forward. Not as members of any one party or faction but as Americans. I know there are people of various political views watching tonight,” said Harris in her speech. “And I want you to know: I promise to be a president for all Americans. I will be a president who unites us around our highest aspirations. A president who leads — and listens. Who is realistic. Practical. And has common sense. And always fights for the American people. From the courthouse to the White House, that has been my life’s work.”
Freedom and hope were in the air throughout the night, with inspiring speakers talking about why Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are the right team to lead our country and fight for a better future for working families. They included Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Kamala Harris’ sister Maya Harris, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Rev. Al Sharpton, Former Illinois Rep. Adam Kinzinger, Former Arizona Rep. Gabby Giffords, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, and others.
The ATU was honored to be in the house for this inspirational and optimistic convention and to advocate for our union, our members, public transit, labor unions, and working families.
Now the real work begins. In the coming months, our Union will be mobilizing our members to get the vote out to send Kamala Harris and Tim Walz to the White House and elect pro-transit, pro-worker candidates across our country.
Thank you to our Local 241 and Local 308 members for keeping the city moving this week!