Thousands of people, dressed in their heavy coats, scarves and mittens, assembled in Washington, D.C. to take part in President Barack Obama’s second term inauguration the morning of Jan. 21. These thousands of hopeful people stood at the nation’s capital, in 20 degree weather, to listen to the musical talents of Kelly Clarkson’s “America”, James Taylor’s “America the Beautiful” and Beyonce’s “National Anthem.”
“Beyonce’s performance was truly amazing because she is a soul singer who made you feel the passion of the lyrics,” junior Mary Kerns said. “Her smile at the end of the song was also a nice touch. It made me smile.”
Although, Beyonce was later accused of lip-synching the song. Junior Kristen Murphy said she thought Beyonce did this out of respect for wanting to perform well for this special event in American history. She also said this accusation was overblown in the media and social media.
But some people saw this inauguration of America’s first black president as a step towards fulfilling Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream especially because it took place on Martin Luther King day. Obama swore allegiance to the United States’ constitution in front of an estimated crowd of 800,000, according to the CNN website, with his hands on the bibles of Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr.
Jennifer Brown-Howerton, social studies teacher, said, “Every four years our country has the opportunity to restart; a rebirth, if you will. The country is able to reflect upon the previous term and set goals for the next.”
Brown said historically the inauguration can play a very pivotal part of the president’s term in office and that Obama having his hands on those two Bibles symbolized the important legacy he wants to leave for our nation.
Junior Claire Boehm said he delivered an inclusive speech for Republicans and Democrats alike. It was a busy day for many, attending parades and listening to speech after speech up until the night’s activities. One of the inaugural balls this year was an invitation-only Commander in Chief’s ball, started by President George W. Bush for the members of the armed forces. The main Inaugural Ball sold tickets for $60 a piece which quickly sold out.
“I’m hoping that Obama refuses to play it safe in his second term. The first term is all about solidifying one’s place as a second term president. It’s about pleasing everyone just enough to get re-elected,” senior Jillian Nelson said. “Now that he’s done that, I expect him to go all out with everything he’s been promising us for the first four years.”