As the first African-American in history to run for president, Obama is King’s dream realized. The irony of Obama’s acceptance speech being given on the same day as King’s famous speech was not lost on the crowd in the Coliseum.

“Forty-five years ago today we witnessed a young Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. step out on the world stage in Washington, D.C., and make a difference,” said Sala Udin, community activist and former city councilman. “In 45 years we now have a Black man poised to become the next president of the United States of America.”

Udin spoke to a crowd of over 1000 Obama supporters at the watch party hosted by the Obama campaign. Udin strongly encouraged guests to vote while reminding them of all that was denied to African-Americans 45 years ago.

CELEBRATE—Everyone rises to their feet at the conclusion of Sen. Barack Obama’s presidential nomination acceptance speech.

“Forty-five years ago, if you went out to vote, you could be killed,” Udin said. “Tonight is a very historic night.”

The crowd erupted into chanting “Obama” many times during the night as people rose to their feet to show their support. The Obama campaign slogan has now shifted from “Yes we can” to “Yes we will” as many of the people chanted, cried and screamed during and after his speech.

Campaign organizers and other community leaders were on hand to sign up volunteers for the Obama campaign as well as to help people register to vote.

“I got involved with the campaign during the primaries,” said East End community organizer Dale Ross. “When I heard his speech, I thought this is a politician who doesn’t leave anyone out.”

Community organizers were present from all of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods to enlist residents as volunteers for the campaign.

“I am anticipating that Obama will make a speech that will unite everybody and encourage them to get involved,” Ross said. “The old politics have to go. He’s about helping people.”

State Rep. Joe Preston Jr. emphasized the power the African-American community holds in this election.

“Each and every one of you is going to be challenged to make a difference,” Preston said. “It is about each and every one of us being willing to do the job.”

Before Obama’s speech, Pittsburgh residents watched the final minutes of the Steelers football game, hoping a victory for the Steelers would be reflective of a victory for Obama.

“These are exciting times,” Preston said. “The Steelers are going to win, but Barack Obama has to win.”

Event organizer Calvin Skinner and other campaign staff declined to comment, asking that all questions be directed to Obama’s western Pennsylvania spokeswoman, Allison Price.