Knicks ticker-tape parade in Lower Manhattan
If you watch the Obama Library, the World Cup, and the Knicks parade this afternoon -- and nothing else -- you can actually see the America we're supposed to be at age 250
Of course as a cynical columnist I felt I needed to write today about the America we're NOT supposed to be share.inquirer.com/AqF4RK
Truth -I was infused with love, hope and unity watching the opening of the Obama Presidential Center and listening to Michelle and Barack Obama. I know we can become that America again. . .
I remember back in 1976 wondering where I would be to celebrate 250 years of Independence and Democracy. It never even crossed mind I might too embarrassed and disgusted with this country to celebrate. Nothing to celebrate here, 1976 was fun though.
Agreed, Mayor Mamdani's speech in NYC was great and the Obama Center speeches & entertainment in Chicago were/are inspiring...this is what Democracy looks like! 💙🇺🇸💙
It really feels like Earth 2 and it’s exhilarating.
What joy listening to the Obamas and feeling the rhythm and celebration of the music. I'm tearing up at the reminder of what an American tribute can be.
Absolutely - I haven't felt this well and centered listening to President Obama at this moment in many months And bookmarked on YouTube Mayor Mandani's speech - What a glorious day Sadly of the possibilities we have been reminded this day will change nothing under Trump's soulless leadership
Im watching the Obamas right now and I feel this feeling. Hard to describe Keep tearing up because I realize the loss we have suffered ...stolen from us The loss of hope and peace and thankfulness... My tears are from joy though, because I just know how many of us think the same with hope and peace
I watched Barack’s speech, which was excellent. I had almost forgotten what it was like to have a decent, articulate president. I’m from Chicago and plan to visit the center ad soon as I can. It is sold out until November.
This Obama ceremony is bringing so much joy!!
We so needed this! Glad I stayed home today
The positivity was off the charts. So good to hear positive people speaking and reminding us, that yes, this is who we, the American people are. It was nice not hearing negativity. Let’s go America! Spread the positive energy.
The Obama Center opening was a joyful celebration of community voices big & small Some of Obama's words: "Remember how American ideals used to inspire people all over the world?" "Everybody counts or nobody counts" "Will you give away your power to decide your own futures?" youtu.be/3DaQyvBRqL8?...
The Obama Library opening was terrific! What joy!!
so right, as i wipe away a tear
This is entire day, and all those events you’ve mentioned were exactly what We The People need, especially after last Sunday!!!
I did. It was my Fourth of July.
This is coming from your Canadian neighbour. It was absolutely wonderful and what the USA was and still is. Don’t let one entitled old demented man change that. Both events made the country and the world smile again with hope. YES WE CAN !
Michelle Obama's speech was masterful. I had tears in my eyes more than once. We have one shot at getting our country back and it's the midterms. So check your voter registration !
No hate or selfishness 🙏🏾 Beautiful change.
ABSOLUTELY! Americans need all this of this today whether they know it or not. Be inspired instead of insulted and embarrassed daily.
Listening to President Obama is an uplifting event! Felt proud to be an American again for a few minutes. 😥
Someone’s apartment that I was cleaning had this tv and I nearly teared up at Michelle’s speech. Fuck I appreciate them now. JFC…Trump truly has fucked this country up
The Knicks parade was a thing of beauty.
Absolutely. A day full of joy and respect and dignity. This was the balm we needed for this horrible period we're enduring.
America is caught between our original ideals of equality, rights, and justice, and the MAGA dream of white power. When I see the World Cup, the Knicks celebration, and the goodness of our people, I see the hope that Obama brought. I hope we can return to a pathway towards American ideals.
I am completely boycotting the FIFA World Cup and instead watching the Women’s Cricket T20 World Cup.
I watched the Opening of the Obama Presidential Center. Listening to President Obama & Michelle Obama gave me a sense of Hope again. What’s going on in this country under 47 is a slippery slope that will lead to Americas destruction IMHO if we continue to allow it. #HopeAndChange
I have no idea what channel world cup is on, but I gave up obligations to watch people, united in joy & hope between the Knicks parade & the grand opening ceremony for the 19 acre Obama library site. Pure Dopamine rush! I avoided seeing the hourly chaos/ cruelty of MAGA media news since 6/16/2015
Wrong. Obama was a part of the neo liberal cabal that threw working class Americans under the bus in favor of corporate ownership of America.
Both of the Obamas speeches were absolutely extraordinary, and perfectly written, executed and timed. Bravo.
#1: I went to parade from 8-10am... #2: scooted back home and watched parade on TV #3: watched Bono and others at Obama event #4: watching bh v sui now!! ALL that is good b4 me...
Watched on CSPAN uninterrupted MS NOW did a decent job CNN had to show JD lie at his press conference for about an hour
I think we are still that America, except for the folks who are currently trying to dismantle our democracy. But I have faith that millions like me are out there protesting and speaking up. We will never give up on our country. NEVER 💙
Absolutely. When America is great.
For a while today I felt hopeful and proud again.
I wish this country was what I grew up thinking it was.
YES - so much hope, inspiration, Fun!!!!
this is honestly an excellent celebratory and motivational speech from Mamdani at the Knicks parade. i'm ready to run through a wall, and i'm not even a Knicks fan
This motherfucker's conducting a masterclass every damn day for how civic politicians can move the needle with passion, exuberance, and positivity. Every damn day.
Me, texting my partner: I want to move to NYC Him: Why? Me: MAMDANI
If they handed out political awards, Mamdani is a lock for Rookie of the Year.
If Grandpa Surrender and the rest of MAGA want to see what America’s up to, our hearts are all in Chicago and New York today celebrating America’s existing greatness. Eat it, MAGA!
I blame his worldview on a liberal arts education and parents who taught him about social justice and the joy of being in the creative arts. He’s so inspiring.
I hoped that this would be the case at the time. Now I believe it 100%.
This nation needs pure unfiltered joy
What I like most about Mamdani is that it's not an act.
When I’m feeling down and discouraged… (which is a lot these days) I’m going to remember.4% .4% CAN STILL WIN IF WE FIGHT!
The man’s got the juice!
I don’t even give a shit about basketball, but this makes me wanna start.
A great speech from a great Mayor who's obviously committed to the welfare of his city. We need more public servants like Mayor Mamdani! ✊
I See A Future President❣️ 💫 And the GOP’s jealousy of Mayor Mamdani is quite delicious. 🏆 NY KNICKS 🩵Mayor Mamdani
He’s really great. It’s too bad he can never be president.
If you don’t love this Mayor - you’re just crazy and incapable of appreciating genuine leadership.
This guy does Mayor to the max! And he does it with the authenticity of an honest-to-god superfan. Not just a fan of the Knicks, but a fan of our fair City! We NEED this enthusiasm!
He’s young and charismatic and handsome, he and Jon Ossoff have a bit of President Obama’s ability to draw people in and help unite them. I don’t even like NBA hoops, but I’m happy for the Knicks!
Between this and the Obama event today...I REALLY REALLY miss normal, respectful, joyus leadership.
Wow! As a Spurs fan, what an awesome speech! Happy for the fans and citizens of NYC!
Mamdani to Obama back to Mamdani. Pretty good Thursday, no?
I know it’s not good for the big money corporate lobbyists but if the Dems just propped up every progressive politician like this dude, the elections would be a cake walk. This is the type of politician that can save this country.
Oh, we so very much need more of this; a positive, uplifting speech that unites everyone, including me, a Nuggets fan!
As a knicks fan I approve this message
That speech is a slam dunk
I’m a Spurs fan and even I got chills. He’s a special talent folks. Time to rise up 1,000 others (as close to) like him (as possible) and fix this country!
PLEASE PLEASE do a "Speech" comparison w/Trump when the Knicks go to the White House...💙
He really is just the best ambassador for the city!
I have never thought that Mamdani represents some new trend line in US politics. He's a talented exception IMO. This is yet another example. The part about Jose Alvarado was money.
Now THAT is a fucking leader.
If Democratic leadership doesn't look at what Mamdani is doing, and realize how he governs is the path forward... I can only assume they would rather stay status quo, center-right, & lose to pedophiles, than win elections with candidates that actually represent the working class.
Has anybody heard whether they’ve been offered the traditional McDonald’s buffet at the White House?
WoW....Just WOOOOOW. What a MAN 🇺🇸
Never seen a game but it turns out I'm a Knicks fan ✊️
Same here and I’m presently listening to President Obama’s speech at the opening of his library. 🔥🔥🔥 I and many others needed this right now.
I am Not even a Basketball Fan and i teared up a little
I love that man! He is a REAL leader!
The best thing about the knicks victory was how it brought people together at a time we need it most.
And he never once mentioned himself!
And I thought I couldn’t like this guy more. Again he knocked it out of the park.
I want to ❤️this a thousand times over. Optimism, goodness, generosity and LEADERSHIP. There is HOPE, America, there is HOPE.
everyone is an honorary knicks fan right now <3
Two great events at the same time, in two parts of this. country, and it wasn't a fist fight.
So. Good. We all needed something like this to lift our heads and hearts up from all the despair. 💙🧡
It's almost like there's an outside chance Mamdani won't turn NYC into a socialist hellhole™ . 🤷♂️
Brilliant speech Good on you on mayor
I followed the games but not a basketball 🏀 fan really. But... I'm tearing up. Mamdani geez. What a speaker. Wow. *Grabs Kleenex*
He has a similar speaking cadence to Obama. Powerful
This is leadership the way it's meant to be
Not from NY or in NY, but goosies and happy tears listening - this was an awesome speech!
That's what I call infectious enthusiasm! Mamdani's got the whole city pumped up!
Dammit! Now I'm crying! I'm not a New Yorker, but I cheered for the Knicks. I loved seeing how the city came together. Many of us are desperate for joy, kindness and leaders that inspire us and make us proud. Seeing that brings tears of happiness, but also tears of regret for what could have been. 😭
MAMDANI and THE KNICKS! awesome awesome speech awesome heroes NY you win!
Wow, Mandami can really make and give a speech
Transformative leadership is effective when the leader is also compassionate and empathetic.
Well, mayor Mamdani praised the Knicks & praised NYC - he didn’t praise himself, comment on the physical attributes of the players or disparage any political party! Hard to believe we have to put up with lowlife Trump for another 2+ years of abuse.
The normality of his personality is so refreshing.
This guy is so good at lifting NY up! He’s a winner and they’re ALL winners for electing him! Go NY GO‼️💯🔥
Between this and Michelle's speech, how do you pick the other side?
Oh no I need the whole speech
I don’t even care about basketball but I just got teary eyed
I can read lips; Brunson: "I'm not that short." No, no you're not sir. lol
I am crying and I am not much of a sports fan at all!
I can’t get enough of Mamdani speeches…
I’m not crying you’re crying!!
He speaks truth at a time when we crave truth
Before the City Hall ceremony, our mayor was riding atop a double- decker bus in the parade with Knicks OG Anunoby, the Game 4 hero, and Karl-Anthony Towns. And he was throwing out free Knicks T-shirts to the crowd Now that’s democratic socialism in action.
Jeez I love this guy
I love Mamdani and that speech brought tears to my eyes!
Cripes, he’s so good at this. Charisma on wheels.
Fantastic! NYC gets the m vigor and charisma it so belatedly deserves.
Now imagine Trump making his version.
Happy very special day!!!! The Obama Center opening!! Open to the public tomorrow ❤️ AND millions of New Yorkers are SO READY to cheer the Knicks championship!! The ticker-tape parade will march along Broadway in Lower Manhattan, following the city's iconic "Canyon of Heroes" route🏆🎼🎶
We have the Kennedy Center Back and the Obama Center opening!!
Opening the Obama Center on Juneteenth
From the man himself, you can tune in at obama.org beginning at 11am CT (that's 9am west coast... just sayin!) bsky.app/profile/bara...
Going to be a lot of positive out there today. I'm wondering how long it will take the mentally ill vulture in charge to make it all about himself. He can't stand to go a day without the spotlight being on him.
Love ya Mia, your one of the most amazing stars of an bygone era of film and story telling that we need to bring back to the film industry. But I'll say this, I feel like were all living through "ROSEMARYS BABY" right now, and Im just hoping the devil doesnt stay in the WH, in this one.
Celebrating all that makes us good in our country and the world is healing, brings us together in positive ways, and elevates our spirits! ❤️🗽🏆🎇
Love the Knicks. Can't stand the owner, James Dolen a Trump supporter who also doesn't pay enough in taxes.
The “Canyon of Heroes” is one of the coolest monikers 👊🏽 Enjoy!!!
We need a little joy and I am so thankful for it today, both were wonderful
These positive moments are so very important in times like we're living through right now
Hope them contractors get paid. Many of these firms, ironically including the local/minority contractors the project promoted, say they’re facing financial ruin while the center prepares to open.
You can watch the opening of the Obama Center today at 10am Eastern time at obama.org .
Mamdani giving a speech at the Knicks victory parade and Obama giving a speech at the opening of his Presidential Library on the same day is the BARBENHEIMER of oratory, it's MAMBAMA
going to need a supercut by this time tomorrow internet
You left out Michelle Obama...Her speech was amazing.
There's a "Mamdani, Obama" musical joke to the tune of the Beatles' "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da" here, but I am not the one to make it.
Such a special day. dorothyguyton.blogspot.com/2026/06/obam...
The Mambama Effect occurs when two simultaneously occurring events create an overwhelming sense of hope in an otherwise bleak milieu.
Contrast Mamdani uplifting speech with James Dolan sounding like a jealous toddler afterwards
The end to a perfect day of love and celebration with the Obamas and the Knicks parade This ladies and gentlemen is the example of what America is when dictators stay out of the way
The love and joy at both events was in stark contrast to the president's birthday party. Americans are sick of Trump's crass, profane, uncouth, racist behavior.
Did Trudeau bring his MAGA girlfriend Katie Perry?
Isn’t he dating MAGA darling Katy Perry, she of Bezos first commercial trip in space?
I have to question Obama's leadership. I mean did he even try to shake Trudeau's hand in an overly aggressive display of strength? Furthermore I saw there was music, and at no point did Obama appear to do the traditional presidential jerk off dance.
You know you did a good job when some other countries come to show you they RESPECT you!
I so love that they are friends Two great men who always seemed to do the best they could despite constantly being under fire.
I was really amazed at the fact I watched tv for 5 hours nonstop, it was wonderful ❤️🇺🇸❤️
Wow a grinning a-hole standing next to probably the best president the US ever had🤦🏻♂️
It was a most beautiful day
Canada hates Trudeau's face even more than his guts.
At first I thought that was Baron Trump. 😂
And Canada kicking ass 6-0 in soccer!
Dude literally kept no one accountable for anything and helped pave the way to today, but okay.
hangin' with da G.O.A.T. and sleepin' with da KatyP...life is good
Remember the term "Okies" for dumbasses from Oklahoma? Well, there may actually be something to that slur. It's unreal what they just did to themselves. MAGAts gonna MAGAt oklahomavoice.com/2026/06/16/v...
Uh oh! 😳 Where's Mel??? 😲
Watching this celebration together was like a drink of water after wandering a desert. Sharing the joy, Hope, unity, and celebrating the diversity within our country with those around the world was just with the Dr ordered! #WeAreAmerica.
I dunno - that other guy looks like Fascist Katy Perry’s boyfriend…
I bet those Dumb Ass FreeDUMB Convoy Truckers in Alberta Hate this! LOL
This will piss off Poilievre and his Maple MAGA crew. I am sure there will be copious nasty comments from them.
Good morning, Champions. Everything you need to know about the Knicks Parade is at nyc.gov/knicks. Check the site for safety information and to watch live starting at 10AM.
You know what? I am not a New Yorker and I’ve only ever visited the city twice, BUT I LOVE YOU! 💕 You are the BEST and BRIGHTEST! Every politician could learn a thing or fifteen from your leadership.
Congratulations Knicks and New York! You have brought much needed joy to the nation. 🫶🏼
One thing I’m loving about the city, now more than ever, is the ability to balance safety along with fun. I would’ve sworn we’d have at least 250 arrests and close to 75 million in damages from the celebrations. It’s great work that the city is doing. Keep it up!
It’s already nuts out here, bro.
Mr. Mayor, habibi, thank you
The basketball that bounces as you move through the menu on nyc.gov/knicks is chef's kiss. Mayor Mamdani, your digital media team is on point!
I just realized I've spent the last couple minutes clicking different side menu items just to watch that basketball bounce around. Nice work. 😁☕
Congrats on the Win! I'm happy for the fans and the people of NY.
Congratulations on the victory this is a source of pride for Americans
someone is still riding the wave
Zohran, letting you know I'm watching from Canada and I do like what you are doing. You are such a refreshing contrast to the dumdum DUMPSTER. I approve.👍 Keep up the good work for the people.
The parade doesn’t start for 2 hours, but the NYPD just announced that there’s “no more room” at the Knicks parade and they’re turning people away. Madness. #NBA
I'm not saying Americans need a reason to celebrate... but just imagine this on a GLOBAL scale when it happens.
Too bad voter turnout isn't like this.
Obama Center opening and Knicks parade at the same time. What A Day
I almost headed down there but as a senior thought I’d watch on tv instead.
They should extend it a couple more blocks
I will never understand parades 😂 Even if I absolutely loved the team, you couldn’t pay me to stand around in a crush of people for hours to get a glimpse of the team from 30 feet away for like 5 minutes.
Now, let's see this much of involvement during the mid-term election.
Pretty STOOPID time to announce they are going on bended knee to the White supremacy House. f the knicks!
What a moment!! But I wouldn’t be caught dead there! LOL!
I wish our no Kings could look like this
Doesn't anyone have to work? It is a Thursday.
Shoulda bought stock in Knicks swag
Good morning everyone What a day As we await the opening ceremony for the OBAMA PRESIDENTIAL CENTER over in NYC thousands gather for the KNICKS PARADE CONGRATULATIONS !! NY KNICKS 🏆🏀🏆
I have really loved seeing the Knicks sharing their victory with their children, a celebration of fatherhood as well! #MomSky
I love that they brought the kids. ❤️
You should stay in bed today buddy because it's going to be a long and beautiful day, the most beautiful day ever in the history of humanity, and beyond!
NYPD already acting out and arrests a student for trying to go to school via the Knicks parade route. But allow small children to pass by after arresting this one student for simply doing the same thing. Video by “nerb570” on IG!
Spot the difference. Hint you may need to use a banned theory to look at race through a critical lens.
NYPD communicating absolutely nothing to people stuck at the entry points. Just staring blankly at people trying to sort out what’s happening.
@zohrankmamdani.bsky.social control your racist thugs.
Oh nice...the NYPD arresting a Black male trying to go to school to get an education & of course nothing will be done about it. Black people living in the era of walking, reading books & getting an education while Black gets you arrested!!! "NY50 is a fraud."