CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- As the Democratic National Convention officially starts on Tuesday, convention officials say it promises to be one of the most accessible and open conventions in the history of political conventions.
"This convention is going to be the most open and accessible in history," according to the convention website. "It isn’t about political ritual or simply renominating the president, it’s about Americans coming together."
The DNC said it is interested in involving the public more because it wants to engage the "American spirit."
"Success depends on involvement at the grassroots, engaging the American spirit and enlisting people who want to put their shoulder to the wheel and change the country for the better."
On Monday, the DNC kicked off with CarolinaFest, a downtown Labor Day festival. The event included vendors, musical entertainment and food for the entire public.
Many delegates and convention participants agree that the convention will be better because of more participation from the community.
"Especially if the city of Charlotte opens up their city for us I think they should be included in everything that the delegation and the convention has to offer," said delegate Brent Page. "I definitely feel that it's important especially if we're going to take over the city like this. It is important for them to be included as well."
Anyone was able to sign up for a community credential which allows access to convention events such as President Barack Obama's speech on Thursday night.
We have a team on the ground in Charlotte reporting from the Democratic National Convention.
