Clinton supporters rally in Raleigh

Dozens of women of all ages gathered at the N.C. legislature in Raleigh Thursday to rally behind one candidate: Hillary Clinton.

A group of UNC students with the UNC Student Delegation for the Feminist Majority were among the audience members, including some who spoke during a news conference.

The rally was held in conjunction with the first day of early voting in North Carolina, which lasts through March 12.

Among the first to speak was N.C. Sen. Floyd McKissick, D-Durham. He said Clinton is the right candidate for North Carolina and the nation as a whole.

“She understands the issues facing us here in North Carolina,” he said, referencing Clinton’s proposal for universal registration upon turning 18 and a 20-day early voting period.

He said the timing is right for Clinton’s presidential campaign.

“We need a commander in chief — not a divider in chief,” he said.

UNC sophomore Emily Hagstrom, who helped organize the group’s venture to Raleigh, said one of the most important aspects of Clinton’s campaign is her commitment to a diverse group of people.

“Hillary is an intersectional feminist, and we are supporting her because of that,” she said.

Feminism is an important topic for UNC sophomore Blair Killian, who also said feminism is not just for women, but everyone — and Clinton supports this notion.

“Women’s rights is not just ‘women’s’ rights, it is everyone’s rights. Everyone deserves to be equal,” she said. “I think that’s important because she hasn’t just worked for women, she’s worked for everyone — lifting up everyone and making us equal.”

Ellie Smeal, president of the Feminist Majority Foundation, also said Clinton is committed to equality.

“I’m just so impressed by her constantly, in every speech, talking about breaking down barriers.”

Speakers also addressed the importance of the new generation of voters.

Smeal said that young people have an obligation to make a difference.

“You have an opportunity to make history and to change the world,” she said. “And I really believe the millennials will do both.”

N.C. Rep. Carla Cunningham, D-Mecklenburg, said this generation also brings a fresh perspective.

“We need someone that allows the boldness and the energy of this generation of young people because they are the most diverse and open-minded generation America has ever seen,” she said.

Cunningham said she is waiting for the day Clinton takes office.

“As a woman, mother and health care provider, I am proud to be a woman, and I await the day I can say: Madame President.”

state@dailytarheel.com