The inauguration of Joseph R. Biden as President of the United States happened without the violence so many of us feared. As the domestic terrorists who violently invaded our nation's Capitol are arrested, with increased security measures and in the middle of a raging virus, this inauguration certainly looked different.
But, sometimes circumstances create inspiration. That's what happened on January 20, 2021.
If you missed the inauguration and the speakers, I listed a few of the most inspirational moments:
Kamala Harris is Sworn In
Kamala Harris is the first Black, first Asian-American and the first woman to be sworn in as Vice President. Here is the historic moment as Kamala Harris is sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor:
President Joe Biden's Inaugural Speech
President Joe Biden, not known for his speaking prowess, delivered a caring yet forceful speech focusing on unity. Here is the speech in its entirety:
You can read the transcript here.
"The Hill We Climb" - Amanda Gorman
“There is always a light, if only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.”
The youngest poet ever to perform at an inauguration, Amanda Gorman gave us such a gift.
Read the transcript here.
Capitol Officer Eugene Goodman
And, a special shout out to Capitol Officer Eugene Goodman, the courageous officer who diverted domestic terrorists away from lawmakers on January 6, 2021. Officer Goodman escorted Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, during the inauguration.
As President Biden reminded us, we have a lot of work to do. But for now, let's take some time to breathe again.