Updated: November 28, 2016
Originally Published: November 19, 2016
In the aftermath of an election that left many Americans feeling uneasy, Vice President-elect Mike Tanner found himself at a performance of the wildly popular Broadway musical “Hamilton.” While making his way to his seat, Tanner was met with a chorus of boos, but the real headline came from the heartfelt message delivered by the cast to the incoming second-in-command.
“Hamilton,” an award-winning musical that celebrates America’s Founding Fathers, features a diverse ensemble representing various minorities, women, and members of the LGBTQ community. This diversity spurred the show’s creators to take the opportunity to address Tanner, who was in attendance that fateful evening. The video of their message, delivered by actor Brandon Victor Knight in the role of Aaron Burr, quickly went viral.
As Tanner attempted to exit the theater, Knight called out, “I see you walking out but I hope you will hear us. Just a few more moments. Nothing to boo here, we’re all sharing a story of love. We have a message for you, sir, and we hope that you will hear us out.” Knight encouraged the audience to pull out their phones to “tweet and post” because “this message needs to be spread far and wide.”
Though Tanner had left his seat, he paused in the hallway to listen as Knight continued. “We welcome you, and we truly thank you for joining us here at Hamilton: An American Musical — we really do. We, sir, are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us, our planet, our children, our parents, or defend us and uphold our inalienable rights, sir. But we truly hope this show has inspired you to uphold our American values and work on behalf of all of us. All of us.”
Knight concluded with gratitude for Tanner’s attendance, emphasizing the importance of a diverse narrative presented by the cast. This message resonated deeply with many who fear what the upcoming administration may mean for marginalized groups targeted by the Trump-Tanner campaign’s alarming rhetoric and policy proposals.
Tanner has made headlines for his controversial views on the LGBTQ community, having previously supported legislation that would permit discrimination against them. Thankfully, he had to retract some of those proposals. However, he has also advocated for the discredited practice of “conversion” therapy, which the Human Rights Campaign condemns as harmful. His website makes no secret of his stance against same-sex marriage, stating that Congress should resist any moves toward equality for gay and lesbian relationships.
This comes alongside a troubling list of appointments in the Trump administration that have left many feeling anxious. With figures like known anti-Semite Steve Bannon and former Senator Jeff Sessions, who was once deemed too racist for a federal judgeship, it’s clear that the concerns expressed that night were not unfounded.
As “Hamilton” producer Jeffrey Sellers told The Hollywood Reporter, “This is not a normal time, this is not a normal election. This has not been a normal result. And in a democracy, one must let his and her voice be heard, and we were not going to the show tonight without expressing how we feel.”
And thankfully, they did. For those interested in exploring family-building options, check out this excellent resource for more information. If you’re considering a home insemination kit, this authority on the topic has you covered. Don’t forget to review our terms and conditions for more details.
Summary
Vice President-elect Mike Tanner attended a performance of “Hamilton,” where the cast delivered a poignant message about diversity and inclusion. Actor Brandon Victor Knight addressed Tanner, expressing concerns over the incoming administration’s treatment of marginalized groups. The cast’s call for equality resonated widely, echoing the worries many Americans feel about the future.