CHICAGO — For those who could not attend the Democratic National Convention at the United Center, a great alternative unfolded at Soldier Field, where those who wanted to experience part of the excitement enjoyed a culmination of entertainment and politics inside the home of the Chicago Bears.
Hometown rapper Common took to the stage just past 7 p.m. and performed for about 15 minutes, telling the crowd he loved being back in the city where he was born for such a big moment.
The viewing party, organized by the non-profit Go Chi Life, was free to attend and open for up to 3,000 people, with the first 500 who registered getting VIP seating right in front of the stage.
Organizers said their goal was to showcase the best of Chicago by bringing events that highlight the city’s rich culture to all Chicagoans, essentially “Putting good people together for good,” which is the org’s slogan.
“I think this shows how Chicago wants to come together as a community,” said Raynesia Lenhart. “They want everyone, regardless of access, to be part of this moment and I thank Chicago for doing this. This is awesome.”
“I figured it would be nice,” said Chris Lenhart. “The DNC is in our city. It’s nice to participate and be part of the moment.”
The House Chi and hip hop artist Tobe Nwigwe also took to the stage at Soldier Field Thursday night, but what many people in attendance were there to hear was Kamala Harris’s speech, live on the jumbotron at Soldier Field.
“To hear Kamala and just to be happy, [experience] happy joy,” said Cathy Shenault and Cynthia Frybarger. “And to meet this is our new America unity again joy happiness togetherness understanding.”
Harris is expected to speak sometime around 10 p.m. CT, with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also expected to make an appearance.