Barack Obama becomes 44th U.S. President

In an inauguration ceremony that was watched by millions worldwide, Barack Obama was sworn-in as president of the United States of America, making history as the first minority to lead the country.

While minority groups – black, Asians, Hispanics, Native Americans – rejoiced at the new era created that began yesterday, Jan. 20, the entire world shared equally in the celebration of a new age for America.

In a gripping inauguration speech Obama brought tears to the eyes of listeners as he spoke of the nation’s hardship and battle ahead, while emphasizing all that the country has already overcome in its short history.

“Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real,” the President said. “They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America: They will be met. On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.”

Natives Americans from around the country traveled to Washington, D.C. to witness history unfold. Representatives from both the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe traveled to the Capitol where thousands of other Natives watched with hope as Obama was sworn in.

Throughout the past several years, Obama has consistently stated his sensitivity to the issues faced by Native Americans. Last May he spoke at a Montana reservation:

“Few have been ignored by Washington for as long as Native Americans, the first Americans,” he said. “That will change when I am president of the United States.”

Although Obama did not directly mention Natives in his inauguration speech, one of the most memorable quotes of Inauguration Day was the following closing remarks, spoken by Rev. Joseph Lowry following the swearing-in of Obama and Vice-President Joe Biden:

“Lord, in the memory of all the saints who from their labors rest, and in the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around… when the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy, say amen. Say amen.”