DNC 2012 Diary: Polis, first lady share personalized stories of American dream

From the Terry Reese dress buzz on Twitter and the talk about all the after parties, last night was an amazing night for the Democratic Party and the broader progressive movement. Most importantly, it was a defining moment in this election about the choice for our future.

For the first time a major political party has included the love of gay and lesbian couples as a part of the party’s platform.

As a Coloradan, I was especially proud of the courage and leadership of Rep. Jared Polis who had a key role during the Convention’s opening night with a reaffirming speech about unity, family and the collective vision for our future.  Rep. Polis was able to embrace all of who he is: a gay Jewish American and that’s what I love about this country. All the speeches from the night included personalized stories of the American dream, this time unlike last week it included the stories of LGBT Americans and that’s why we should all be inspired by what the Democrats offered for America’s future.

First Lady Michelle Obama had an inspiring message that transcended the political rhetoric that divides us, but showed our interconnectedness as Americans.   The convention hall was packed with intensity and excitement while the First Lady painted this narrative of how we can all make a better America.

The gays in the room were all crying.  No, not because she looked amazing, but because we were clinging to every word of her speech.

The moment she mentioned our love was the point where I knew LGBT Americans will vote this November to reelect President Obama.

I invite you to follow me on Twitter for a minute by minute play of all the events and speeches tonight @leslieherod.