Goodnight, Raleigh! | a look at the art, architecture, history, and people of the city at night

Dancing and Celebration in the Streets

posted by John Morris in Cityscape, Small Business Spotlight
November 5, 2008

Once the news broke of Obama’s projected victory, those crowded in the Raleigh Times erupted in celebration and happiness.

Minutes later, the corner of Hargett and Wilmington Streets were filled with people dancing, clapping, and hugging one another. There were celebrations across other parts of downtown too. Be sure to check out New Raleigh for more photos and coverage of people filling the streets upon hearing the news.

The man facing the camera was overcome with emotion at the news. He had the following to say to me and Jeremy (foreground):

Y’all don’t know what this is about. This is something else. I went to Vietnam and could not eat in a motherfucking restaurant. I was told “Sir, you can’t go in here”. I remember going to the Raleigh Sandwich Shop and having to go in the right door. In 1971 there were National Guard troops along all the streets.

The crowd at Two T’s.

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There are 4 Comments to this article

Chuck U. Farley says:
11/06/2008

No one under the age of 50 can truly understand what that man was talking about. Reading and hearing about the blatant, violent racism that existed in our country does not convey the shame of experiencing it.

God, have we come a long way as a country. America judged an African-American not by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character, for President of the United States of America.

I, like most of my generation, never, ever thought I’d see this day… and it makes me PROUD.

Elliot says:
11/06/2008

To be part of that celebration was one of the greatest events in my life. So much energy, so much joy. Beautiful night.

Chico says:
11/07/2008

The photo looking down on the corner of Hargett and Wilmington St. is just the latest (and most wonderful) example of why I think that is the best intersection in all of Raleigh. I’m officially claiming the Northwest corner for myself and my upcoming revolution.