This was my first rally, and from the moment I stepped out of my car, I was surrounded by an energy unlike anything I’d ever felt.

Powerful voices chanted, drums echoed, and songs of peace rose above it all. The rhythm of the crowd blended with the hum of traffic—cars honking in support, windows rolled down, signs taped proudly to their sides.

I had heard that the Sisters of St. Joseph and the Carondelet Village Justice Seekers were passionate about justice and had been hosting a variety of rallies on Fairview Avenue in St. Paul over the past several months—supporting safe schools after the Annunciation School shootings, calling for a just economy through the “Emergence” rally, and standing in solidarity with immigrants at the “Good Trouble” rally.

When I arrived at the October rally for a more just world for all, I expected a few people holding signs and sharing smiles. Instead, I found myself among thousands of people, each speaking their truth. As I moved through the crowd, I saw signs calling for immigrant rights, access to health care, and equality for all. Posters demanded action on gun violence and safer schools—all expressed through peaceful resistance, grounded in love and solidarity with our neighbors.

The energy was electric. I felt empowered to chant alongside people whose values echoed my own. It became clear that the decisions being made in Washington weren’t just affecting one group—they were impacting us all. The passion and love this community showed for our country was incredible.

What moved me most was learning that the Justice Seekers of Carondelet Village had organized the rally. Seeing so many people come together with them was breathtaking—people of all ages standing shoulder to shoulder, united in their desire for justice. Together, they lifted up issues that matter deeply: health care, gun safety, LGBTQ+ rights, and protection for our neighborhoods and schools.

Realizing that so many others share these hopes reminded me that none of us are truly alone. I couldn’t help but imagine the powerful change this community could create if we continue to stand together—lifting our voices and working for justice as one.

As a person of color whose family came to the United States seeking a better life, I have seen how deeply this community values diversity and justice. At the rally, I witnessed people of every background—White Americans and people of color—standing side by side, raising their voices, and fighting for what’s right.

Many of my friends are undocumented, and seeing the unity of the crowd reminded me that their voices matter too. This experience revealed the true power of compassion and solidarity—the strength that comes when people choose to stand together for truth and love.

This article is by Moraima Bernabe, St. Catherine University Student Intern