History unfolded before millions of American eyes as Barak H. Obama was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America. Indeed, people around the world watched a pivotal moment in our time this past Tuesday.
The lead up to the ceremony included a train ride from Philadelphia to Washington, through the territory spanned by President Abraham Lincoln nearly 150 years ago. Along the way, the train stopped so President-elect Obama could address the substantial crowds of whom some would shake hands with Obama and his wife. For decades, trains were a central part of election campaigns and we appreciated that taste of the past and wondered if it might be a reflection on the future as he trekked to Washington.
Days of jubilation ensued, as Americans of every stripe and colour descended on Washington to witness an historic first – the election of a black man, who would reside in the White House, the home of the President, the Commander in Chief. Decades earlier, the prospect of such a thing was chronicled by Dr. Martin Luther King in his famous “I have a dream” speech. Obama, by virtue of his solid election victory, earned a spot in history this day. Fellow blacks, from one end of the country to the other, joined to witness the day, sharing a moment thought unattainable for the better part of two centuries. One chap from Florida told CBC he had gone to Washington to represent his family at the inauguration. Generations from now his family will likely remember his attendance, as other pioneers today remember attending rallies held 40 some years ago, seeking a fair shake for blacks in America.
Abraham Lincoln spoke all those years ago about the need for the union to become strong. He also bears the distinction of being President when Emancipation of the slaves was granted. He was a Republican. Today, President Obama, a Democrat, spoke of the need to renew the union and end what has been a very divisive time of partisanship and reckless rhetoric. Americans first, is their call.
The enormity of the proposition is now upon him. Now, like those 43 Presidents before him, President Obama bears the weight of a nation on his shoulders and we wish him success.
