About 30 people gathered to watch history in the making last night.

“This is (Barack) Obama’s destiny and this is our destiny,” said Reverend Rhonda Britton.

A civil rights event hosted at Mount Saint Vincent University drew leaders of the African Nova Scotian community to watch election results and cheer for the first black president of the United States.

To kick the evening off, the speakers filed into the auditorium singing “We shall overcome.”

They reflected on the civil rights movement and what Obama’s presidency will mean.

“This 2008 presidential election is nothing less than a historical phenomenon, not just for the U.S., but for Canada and the rest of the world,” Britton said.

“We happen to be alive not only to see history in the making, but being a part of that history.”

Before they settled in to watch the results, Britton said Obama’s expected victory restores hope for the next generation and that a person’s merit outweighs their race.

“Nothing, my friends, nothing happens by chance.”

Citizenship Judge Linda Carvery said she thinks the world is on a precipice of positive change.

“I feel like we’re on the starting line and for each one of you it’s going to be different.”

MLA Percy Paris said everyone will always remember where they were the night Obama was elected president.

“This has gripped the world,” he said.

He expressed concern for Obama’s safety and the security it takes to keep him and his family safe.

“I’m scared for his life,” he said. “What a loss that would be to the world.”

Paris also urged vigilance in the fight against racism and discrimination. Even with Obama’s win, Paris said they must continue to inspire and support young people.