About 100 people squeezed into Harter Union lobby Jan. 20 to celebrate – not as liberals and conservatives, but as Americans – the inauguration of the 44th president Barack Obama.
“It’s a good time to be an American. A proud day. It really is,” senior Jackie Cordes, who didn’t vote for Obama but is glad with the outcome of the election nonetheless, said.
Freshman Kelsey Allen not only voted for Obama, but started helping with his campaign her senior year in high school.
“I didn’t expect something like this to happen in my lifetime, and I’m really proud of this country for electing the first black president,” she said.
Many students are pleased with Obama, whose mother is from Kansas and father’s from Kenya, because they anticipate not only the change he will bring about personally, but also that which he will inspire.
“I just hope people don’t look at this election and say, ‘Yeah, Barack Obama, he’s different, he’s black, he’s going to change everything,'” junior Di-Tu Dissassa said. “I hope people look at themselves and try to change themselves and not just think that this one man can change everything.”
Obama’s swearing-in brought laughter as he faltered over some words, after Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts read the oath incorrectly, and tears as he sent a firm message to terrorists regarding the strength of American spirit.
“You cannot outlast us and we will defeat you,” he said.
Obama promised to bring about changes in the economy, healthcare and education. He also reached out to Muslims, specifically, and poor nations while calling on wealthier nations to help those less fortunate.
“Internationally this election has really been a hot topic. I just think it’s amazing how global it is,” Dissassa said.
Dissassa visited her grandparents in Ethiopia last summer and said people were excited with the idea of Obama being elected president.
Freshman Shavon Brown said she’s proud she voted for Obama and helped with the inauguration party in the union because she’ll always remember it.
“We’re part of history right now, and I just think it’s really cool that I’ll be able to say that,” she said.