Dear Friends,
Twelve years ago, our nation swore in its 44th President, Barack Obama. On that day I said it was a day to celebrate. While many of us had significant philosophical differences with President Obama I believed we could celebrate on this day that our nation’s first African American was ascending to the office of the presidency. An incredible thing only fifty years from the civil rights movement and 150 years from the legal end to slavery in our country.
Today is another historical day for our country. On this day, Kamala Harris will recite the oath of office to become the Vice-President of the United States. The first time, a woman has said these words. Again, many have very significant philosophical differences with her, but in the midst of it, we must not miss the significance and opportunity of this day. One hundred years ago women gained the right to vote in our country. Today, we celebrate with our daughters at the site of a woman reciting the oath. Today we celebrate the opportunities that are available to our daughters that did not exist a few short years ago. Today we are able to participate in witnessing history.
Yes, our differences still remain. Yes, there will be much vigorous debate about policy and the future of our country, as there should be. Tomorrow, we will take up our debate. Tomorrow, we will return to our divisions. But, today, let us not miss the chance to celebrate history and the hope it means for all of us.
Blessings,
Stephen