It was day of living history throughout the world, and as 8th-graders here in Lafayette watched the inauguration, I had some basic questions for the kids: Do they feel hope? Are they inspired about the years to come?
“Raise your right hand and repeat after me: I, Joseph Robinette Biden, Jr., do solemnly swear…,” Chief Justice John Roberts looked at the man who, in mere seconds, would become the 46th President of the United States. Biden slowly repeated Roberts’ words. "I, Joseph Robinette Biden Junior do solemnly swear..."
At Holy Family Catholic School in Lafayette,13-and-14 year-olds gazed at Washington, D.C. via their whiteboard, and took in the inauguration of a new president and vice president of the United States. And right away, there were realizations about the importance ---present and future-- of what was happening.
"We're all a part of history,” began Trinity Walker, “and while some people might not understand what's going on, by paying attention to it, we know that anything's possible."
There were plenty of reasons for applause. Kamala Harris became the first vice president of color (and first female to take that office) in U.S. History, something Principal Rogers Griffin once felt was unthinkable. “It was very emotional for me to see a woman standing on the dais, being sworn in as Vice-President of the United States. When I was younger, I could never think about a woman, and a woman of color, being Vice President of the United States. "
There are lessons to be learned from this day, says student Aiden James. He believes all young people should care about today's events, all… should be inspired. “Because they should feel that they can do the same thing,” explained James. “They could become famous, they could become president or do anything they want.”
And with that, a couple of our students offered a little advice to our country's highest leaders. ”Keep pushing and our country's going to become greater,” offered Therron Sampy. “Do your best, don’t get nervous; no pressure man, there’s no pressure,” added James.
For these students at Holy Family, this day also served as a ray of hope. And for our nation, the positive possibilities. “I think that it is because I feel that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are very good leaders, and they'll do anything to help people in need,” concluded Walker.
------------------------------------------------------------
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
To reach the newsroom or report a typo/correction, click HERE.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Evening News Headlines, Latest COVID-19 Headlines, Morning News Headlines, Special Offers
