Photo by Colin Royal

By Colin Royal, Editor-in-Chief

This is the first of a series of articles about the importance of voters—especially college-aged— in the 2024 elections.

CHICAGO – The Democratic National Convention has been full of star-studded appearances. Renowned artist Lil John, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, and iconic filmmaker Spike Lee were only some of the celebrities in attendance.

The star that truly stole the show Wednesday evening was Grammy Award-winning artist Stevie Wonder. He delivered an extremely brief and impactful speech — opening with his deep love for the people in attendance.

“Every song that I’ve sang, every song that I have written, is because of my love for you right here,” he said.

From the beginning until the end of his eight minutes on stage, he charged the DNC crowd with exercising their powerful right to vote — leaving his audience with feelings of joy, love and hope.

“This year I prayed very hard for peace to come to our world’s nation, but also to each one of our hearts,” he said.

Wonder spoke passionately about everyone contributing to a united nation — one that is not divided by chaos, turmoil and disdain. He stressed that Vice President Kamala Harris and the men and women supporting her were crucial to achieving that vision.

“Now is the time to understand where we are and what it will take to win,” he said. “This is the moment to remember when you tell your children where you were and what you did.”

Wonder’s words caused many to cheer and shout as they felt his passion for unity.

He closed his speech with a call to action, and he implored everyone that it is their time to get out and vote.

“As we stand between history’s pain and tomorrow’s promises, we must choose courage over complacency,” he said. 

Copy Edited by Journalism Department Chair, Ron Thomas