Inauguration of President Barack Obama
44th President's Swearing In Ceremony in Washington DC 20.01.09
Jan 20, 2009
The sun smiled on Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony on a crisp and bright January day. Millions of people had traveled to the National Mall in Washington, and many more millions viewed this historic day across the world through the media.
After the performance of a specially commissioned orchestral piece that included traditional airs, and a military salute, Barack Omaba was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States of America.
Inaugural Speech
Barack Obama's speech acknowledged the current financial difficulties that exist for the Nation and for the World at this time, but he encouraged people to remember that the American people are no less inventive and no less resourceful now than were the founding fathers when they braved enormous difficulties and privations.
He said that the time for putting off making unpleasant decisions is past but that with a spirit of co-operation much could be achieved. He exhorted the American people to begin to rebuild. "Everywhere we look there is work to be done. We will rebuild the roads and bridges." hinting at a strategy of prime pumping of the economy.
A Watchful Eye
He spoke about the greatness of America's market system and its proven ability to create great wealth. However he reminded people that this can only come about if there is a watchful eye that guards against corruption. The strength of the economy depends upon its ability to "extend opportunity to every willing heart - not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to the common good".
He spoke about a new philosophy for international relations; one where greatness cannot be assumed, but has to be earned and must be mixed with humility and restraint. He spoke about creating a climate where there would be more co-operation and understanding between nations. Where all efforts would be made to work with other countries to end the nuclear threat.
Race Relations and Equality
He spoke about the American society as a "patchwork heritage" which should be viewed as a strength not a weakness. A history of mutual distrust and hatred must be replaced by a climate of common humanity, peace and mutual respect between peoples.
He paid tribute to a nation where 60 years ago his father would have been refused service in some restaurants due to segregation laws, and now he,a black man, was taking the Oath of Office.
Returning to Traditional Values
He spoke about the need for all the people of America to embrace the traditional values of honesty, hard work, courage, fair play, tolerance, loyalty and patriotism.
He said that America can no longer afford indifference towards the hungry or to the inequality in consumption of world resources. He promised to harness the wind, the soil and the waves in order to fuel the nation's cars and factories and to give science back it's rightful place in order to improve life for the American people through technological innovation.
Praise Song for Today
The Inaugural Speech was followed by a reading by poet Elizabeth Alexander of her inspirational poem "Praise Song for Today".
Benediction
The Benediction was led by Reverend Joseph E. Lowery, a respected leader of the Civil Rights' Movement. His prayer for the Nation and for Barack Obama's administration and for the Obama family ended on a light note that appealed for racial tolerance and co-operation: He asked the Nation to pray for the day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around, when yellow will be mellow, when the red man can get ahead, man, and when white will embrace what is right.
Reference
BBC Coverage of the Inauguration Ceremony 201.09
Full transcript of Barack Obama's Speech
More poems by Elizabeth Alexander
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