I am humbled to have been given the privilege to join the festivities surrounding the
historic inauguration of President Barack Obama. I am also truly grateful that the
Stafford Foundation has chosen this occasion to celebrate organizations like Youth
Action, who have given back to our communities.
We stayed at the J.W. Marriott which has unique significance because of its key location
on “America’s Avenue.” It is the main road connecting the Capitol with the White House
and served as the central point that unites the groups of people to celebrate America’s
epic achievement.
The festivities began with an Interfaith Prayer Breakfast on Monday, 1/19/09 where we
were entertained by the joyous melodies of harpist, Jeff Majors and the dynamic
Evangelist Shirley Caesar. This was followed by a Commemorative Luncheon where the
keynote speaker, Martin Luther King, III reminded us that we have not reached the
Promised Land yet, but with the leadership of our new President, we are destined to get
there.
Inauguration day was particularly special as we watched history unfold as President-elect
Barack Obama was sworn into office. It was an important moment for ALL Americans.
The view of the Inaugural Parade from the Marriott’s 12th Floor enclosed Terrace was
phenomenal. I held my breath as President and First Lady Obama left the comfort of
their limousine and walked through the Parade, waving their hands at the millions of
people in the crowd. I then had a sigh of relief when they returned to their limousine,
knowing that, unfortunately, not everyone is rejoicing in this victory.
Finally, we attended the People’s Inaugural Ball where we dined and celebrated the
appointment of our 44th President of the United States.
As we return to our communities we are given the awesome challenge to seek
opportunities to reach out and extend a compassionate hand to those who seek our help.
Let’s ALL meet that challenge.