[TtB] Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness

((OOC: See how you can get involved with this Haven plot!))

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She was tall, she was green not unlike jade, and she was a gift to the city of New York, to all of the United States. A copper symbol from the French to the Americans, the Statue of Liberty stood proud on her island behind the stage that had been set up for their announcement from Governors Island. Various local politicians, journalists, investors, and health professionals sat with cold beverage in hand and cameras waiting.

The sun was bright and warm as Devon Hadden took the stage, sunglasses upon his head and a navy blazer over his crisp white shirt. He smiled another smile, but it was soft for this wasn’t purely a social event and all invited had clearly guessed that. No, it was an important announcement months in the making. Haven officers, public relations specialists, staff both old and new from Hadden’s Havens, as well as the dutiful security guided by Ranger and his team stood quietly as the founder began.

“Thank you all for coming today. I hope you’re enjoying the food, the accommodations of the Governor’s park staff, and of course the weather,” Devon grinned and chuckled. Many chuckled back, nodding. He glanced over his shoulder and took a deep inhalation before turning around. “As some of you had guessed, this isn’t only a thank you to those that have helped and worked with us over the last year but I do thank you.

“I’m pleased to announce that Haven in partnership with Hadden’s Havens will begin a number of mutant-specific programs while strengthening its fight for minority and mutant rights. New classes in education but also training will be available for emerging mutants and those seeking to better their community through outreach. These programs will allow us to empower our people to then step into this difficult political climate to help make the change we need by affirming the equality we should already have while helping them to live their best lives,” Devon nodded.

Nods joined collective applause and smile while journalists busily began typing on their cell phones. Clouds were gathering overhead, thickest still over the waters and shadowing the Lady Liberty. Behind shaded rims, dark eyes watched the crowd as their owner continued his speech.

“These support programs at Hadden’s Havens will include medically-trained Adapted staff to assist those with difficult manifestations. Haven meanwhile will offer legal sponsored aid to foreign immigrants including those trapped from the other side of the recently closed rift. We must continue to be the leading voice in bringing democracy not only across the world, but fairly within our own communities for those seeking safe refuge whether from religious or mutant persecution. This renewed focus on civil and mutant rights is ever important in the wake of SUPER activities from our sister-universe and ensuring their illegal targeting and abduction of mutants is not mirrored here,” Devon paused as numerous eyes widened and cameras zoomed in. Texts went out in earnest.

“We cannot allow such organizations to jeopardize lives and the rights of the people or anyone who would seek liberty in their pursuit of happiness. We shall continue our fight against such activities through civil action and the outreach that has made our volunteer and partner network so important to our successes,” he smiled even as the darkening clouds threatened to ruin the summer event.

“Our families who support us, our friends who work with us, our donors who give knowing we will move forward from their help, and every person who speaks up that what the federal government is doing is wrong for we need not change, but fair and equal rights: you are part of this success. You are the light that spears the darkness,” Devon smiled a wry grin as the clouds began to break, the summer sun piercing the French symbol with rays of golden color. “America must be the leader in democracy and Haven in partnership with Hadden’s Havens will do our part through outreach, education, training, and a fight on capitol hill. We must do more, and that is why the change we bring is in renewed efforts for our brothers and sisters who need, who desire to be better, to learn more, to help others, and to find a safe Haven. We must help build it. Thank you!”

Sun beat down as the gathering storm clouds dissipated. Many stood, clapping, and journalists began their calls for questions and public relations experts and the press office for Haven stepped forward. Devon meanwhile bowed his head, mouthed thank you, and stepped forward to get pictures taken with their political and donor guests.

Time to get to work.