Bernie Sanders rally (Photo – Melissa Michelson)
There are over a dozen red dots on the Bernie Sanders campaign map indicating grassroots activities around LA County. One event—a blue dot–will no doubt draw the biggest crowd: the rally featuring Bernie Sanders at the Pasadena Convention Center this Friday, May 31.
By Melissa Michelson
Whether this is your first time attending a Bernie rally or you have been waiting for this moment since 2016, this is your opportunity to get informed about Bernie’s platform directly and unabridged. The mainstream media will be present, but it is unlikely that the entire speech will be covered.
Here are some tried and true tips from a Bernie devotee and 2016 national delegate for the San Gabriel Valley:
1- Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for the 12 o’clock rally. You will want to get there by 9:30 a.m. if you want to get close to the stage where Bernie will speak. The rally staff will pass out Bernie 2020 placards to those closest to the stage.
2- Do not be deterred by the line that likely will go around the block. This is normal for a Bernie rally. The line will move fast once doors open.
3- If you cannot stand for an extended period of time, be sure to let the rally staff know that you need ADA assistance.
4- Bring cash if you intend to buy unofficial but creative merchandise from the street vendors. It is 100% acceptable to wear 2016 Bernie gear if that is what you have.
5- Take the metro if you want to avoid parking hassles and costs. Del Mar station on the Gold Line is three blocks away.
6- If you cannot arrive early but still want to enter and the indoor hall is full, there is usually an overflow space to listen or watch. Bernie often goes there to speak to that audience after the main event.
7- Feel free to live-stream and take plenty of pictures for your social media.
8- RSVP if you are considering going so the campaign has a head count and so you get any updates from the campaign: (RSVP to the free rally here).
To make the best of your rally experience, be sure to talk to the people around you. Ask them why they are there and why they are supporting Bernie Sanders. Many will be happy to engage. As a large crowd is expected at this event, and due to high security, you want to use common sense and leave large bags at home.
Date/Time 05/31/2019 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Location Pasadena Convention Center. Exhibit Hall B.
Melissa Michelson was a Bernie Sanders’ 2016 National Delegate for Congressional District 27.
It’s too bad Bernie only uses the Democratic party for his own political gain every four years.
It’s too bad the system is set up like that and the Democratic Party is no longer the party for the people but rather like the Republicans, a party for the corporate donors.