Biden brings hope, promises healing.

At his inauguration on January 20, 2021, Joe Biden was sworn in as the 46th president of the United States. Biden takes office amid a raging global pandemic and with the country more divided than perhaps ever before in its history irrespective of the Civil War era. 

Standing before a militarized U.S Capitol due to the violent insurrection on January 6, Biden said, “This is America’s day, this is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope. Of renewal and resolve. Today we celebrate the triumph not of a candidate, but of a cause, the cause of democracy. We’ve learned again that democracy is precious. Democracy is fragile. At this hour, my friend, democracy has prevailed.”

Senator Amy Klobuchar, D-Minnesota, introduced the first African-American, first Asian American and first woman Vice President, Kamala Harris, “who stands on the shoulders of so many on this platform who have forged the way to this day. When she takes the oath of this office, little girls and boys across the world will know that anything is possible.”

Biden’s inaugural address promised that he would be a president for “all Americans” whether they voted for him or not. Biden continued, “We must end this uncivil war. We must reject a culture where facts are manipulated and or rejected.” Biden said, “Together we will write a story of hope, decency and dignity. May we meet this moment.”

If approved by the Senate, Biden’s first cabinet as president is potentially the most diverse ever, including its first Native American cabinet secretary, first female national intelligence director, first female treasury secretary, first Latino homeland security chief and first openly gay cabinet member. So far, Biden is delivering on his promises of a cabinet that is truly reflective of the American people. These appointments are important to demonstrate the values, the identity, and the spirit of the new administration. And, so, there is hope as we usher in the new year and the new administration.

I leave you with the words of Amanda Gorman, the first U.S. National Youth Poet Laureate who recited her poem, “The Hill We Climb,” at Biden’s inauguration ceremony. Gorman, a 22-year-old descendant of slaves who was raised by a single mother in Los Angeles, grew up with a speech disability which she refuses to see as a weakness. Poised and confident, she implored us, “there is always light, if only we’re brave enough to see it; if only we’re brave enough to be it.”

In this edition of the Mayfield Crier we have brought you stories surrounding the new positives, the new lights we have experienced thus far in the first month of the new year. From more developments in new Covid-19 vaccinations to must-see Netflix shows, we got you covered. We hope you find new sparks of light while reading our articles and continue to remain optimistic for a brighter new year.