Good News: They Ended the Day with “Higher Ground”

Last week, Chicago threw a party. And the whole country was invited.

The Barack Obama Presidential Center officially opened — a nearly 20-acre campus in Jackson Park on the South Side of Chicago, built to honor a presidency rooted in hope, community, and the belief that democracy is worth fighting for.

The dedication ceremony drew 6,300 people to John Lewis Plaza. Every living former president attended. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel were there. Stevie Wonder performed. Jennifer Hudson performed. Bruce Springsteen performed. Kamala Harris was there. Oprah was there. Thousands more gathered at a free watch party nearby, dancing in the street, celebrating together. The night ended with an all-star rendition of "Higher Ground." The public opening followed on Juneteenth — a deliberate choice that said everything about what this place stands for.

The only person not invited was the sitting president.

Inside: a museum, a life-sized replica of the Oval Office, a new branch of the Chicago Public Library, a basketball court, a picnic area with grills — and a garden designed by Michelle Obama, with lettuce and strawberry plants growing in the ground she chose.

Barack Obama spoke about democracy. About what it requires. About why it's worth it.

Leading Ladies Vote believes in the America that shows up on days like this: joyful, grounded, and clear-eyed about what we're working toward.

Good news is fuel. Keep going.