In support of our US Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, I attended a well-organized and
powerful example of the happenings at a Kalamazoo campus.
More Perfect University together with Students for Abdul hosted Dr. El-Sayed for about
an hour Tuesday, September 21st at a Fetzer Center lecture hall in the heart of Western
Michigan University. I was one of a handful of “other” generations (who were graciously
received by the collegiate crowd) but mostly I saw the young faces of information
seekers, arriving early, chopping it up with cohorts, studying while waiting for the noon
hour event to begin.

Abdul came down the stairs with his team to boisterous cheers of a lengthy standing
ovation. He of course stopped along the way to shake hands and acknowledge the
crowd as he spread his exuberance all around the room. The electricity was
reminiscent of a Kamala Harris rally.

The moderator welcomed us explaining that its on-campus goal was “Bringing together
all corners of campus life through events that build community, spark constructive
conversation, and strengthen our collective power as the 99%.”
Dr. Matt Longjohn, 40th House District Representative serving Kalamazoo and adjacent
districts, talked about his journey from medicine to elected office, much like Abdul’s race
for the senate seat.

And then Abdul shared his backstory, public service dedication, and path to winning.
Most of the hour was spent taking questions from students. Unvarnished discussion
included ongoing support of the LGBTQ+ community, why a pro-life attendee should
support a pro-choice candidate, a stressed doctoral student unloading about cuts to
financial aid, scholarships and loans, and finally a fellow Muslim who asserted they
wouldn’t vote for Abdul on faith alone probed how he would stay true to his campaign
promises when many do not.

Abdul affirmed each person for the courage it took to stand and state their truths. He
gave each question intentional thought, allowed for interaction and reviewed his beliefs
and commitment for the good of all Michiganders. He kept close alignment to
statements that I have read and heard in previous rallies. Those replies were met with
confirming shouts and applause. In short, who Abdul El-Sayed professes to be on the
campaign trail, matched the man on stage.

The vote belongs to the people from youngest to elder, and this WMU stop was
validation that our student generation will help deliver us from despair to hope.

Your Cass County Neighbor,

Della Bundle