Individuals unrelated to politics were guaranteed an opportunity at the Democratic National Convention (DNC).
The DNC, held by the United States Democratic Party, was hosted in Chicago, from Aug. 19-22. The four-day event brought together about 4,700 delegates from all 50 states, 20,000 members from the media, and hundreds of other individuals unrelated to politics.
As the convention took place at various venues including the United Center and McCormick Place, politicians from around the country were able to converse with various professional media outlets, attend caucuses ranging from topics covering LGBTQ+ to Small Businesses, and hear the main program live each night.
Despite the main focus being on directly the main speakers, including Kamala Harris, Joe Biden, and Bill Clinton, numerous others were there as participants.
Local artist Lloyd Rice shared his involvement with the DNC. Lloyd Rice was reached out to through Micheal Kosta to help design commercial materials for the DNC. This opportunity helped Rice connect with many who appreciated his art.
“I think it’s important for me to stay informed in a lot of art, it reflects parts of my life and things that are going on in the world,” Rice said. “ I think it’s a good opportunity to not only showcase my creativity but to help support a cause that I think is worth it.”
Rice’s aunt, Laura Rice, attended the convention with Lloyd to help manage purchases and monitor sales progress.
“His parents, my brother, sister-in-law, and grandmothers are [all] excited,” Rice said. “This is a major opportunity; I don’t think he it understands yet.”
The Democratic National Convention also provided opportunities for volunteers. Chicago resident Betsy Thompson was one of them.
“My daughter is a rising senior at Whitney M. Young Magnet High School and is planning on majoring in political science,” Thompson said. “I thought the convention would be a great opportunity for her to see the process and ask questions.”
Thompson worked as a Wayfinder to help attendees find their way around the convention. She directed individuals to caucus rooms, the expo, restrooms, and different eateries.
The DNC 2024 was the first time content creators were credentialed and invited to cover the event. Content creators like Laysie B had the opportunity to highlight the political convention from a unique perspective.
“I have the ability to interview some politicians and talk about the different caucuses and their policies,” she said. “But I want to talk about the new things, the actual policies and what they plan to do in order to earn the loan.”
