On Saturday March 22, the Ashland University College of Democrats and College of Republicans organizations hosted their annual Freedom Ball in Redwood Hall. This year’s theme was Western, to inspire attendees to get on with some line dancing.
The Western theme has been heavily requested for a few years now,” College of Republicans President Claire Houchin said. “We thought it would be something people would be excited about.”
President of the College of Democrats, Cole Jenkins, stated that the two clubs split duties in helping of the event.
“We decided that the Democrats would get the food, and the Republicans would get the decorations, so we just had to be sure to buy enough food for the event,” said Jenkins.
But the event did not just have food and decorations. The Freedom Ball had live music. “We have never had live music before,” said Houchin. “His name was Graham Houchin… with the western theme, it was a no brainer to find live music and listen to some live guitar.”
The Freedom Ball has been taking place for five years, and even with the heat in the world of politics, these two clubs still find a way to come together.
“The Freedom Ball is meant to be an annual reminder of American unity,” said Jenkins. “We can put aside policy differences and just put on a good event.”
Houchin agrees on the same issue. She said, “In our current divisive political climate, we think it is important to show respect for each other despite our political differences.”
This year’s Freedom Ball was a success, and even though the two clubs are not yet preparing for next year’s dance, they are still listening to the people.
“We don’t have a plan right now since it’s so soon after this recent Freedom Ball, but we’re happy to hear suggestions.” said Jenkins.
The Freedom Ball also had cards on tables for people to play with, a raffle, and a voting opportunity to choose the queen and king of the dance, but with a little twist. It was Mr. Freedom and Lady Liberty that guests were voting for.
Mr. Freedom was won by David Maloney, and Lady Liberty was won by Grace Snyder.
Make sure to follow the College of Republicans @aucollegerepublicans and the College of Democrats @ashlandcollegedemocrats on Instagram to keep up to date with their events and make sure you do not miss the next Freedom Ball.
