December 15, 2008 (Vol. 8, No. 9)

Lehman Community Celebrates Inauguration Day

Members of the Lehman community gathered at several viewing stations around campus to watch as President-elect Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president of the United States. A lucky few, like students of the Marie Curie High School for Nursing in the Bronx, traveled down to the nation's capital to catch a glimpse of the inauguration.

On the Lehman campus, audiences listened attentively as President Obama delivered his inaugural address, in which he soberly reminded Americans that the nation faces serious challenges at home and abroad, and that these challenges would not be met easily or quickly. He called for an end to "petty grievances and false promises" and prompted Americans to "begin again the work of remaking America."

For many, the election of America's first African American president signifies a new era in American history. Senior Loise Kagimbi, who migrated to the U.S. from Kenya three years ago, has made it a priority to learn about African American history, especially the struggles for freedom, acceptance, and equality. "It is a redemption of not only black Americans," said Kagimbi, "but for America as a nation because it means that America is living up to what it says."

"This is history in the making," said computer science and art major Jose Nuñez, who attended the screening with his infant daughter. "This represents an opportunity for people to work together to become stronger as a nation."

"To me, the election of Barack Obama is recognition of my people's struggles," said nursing major Essence Bird, "and that finally, someone has heard us."

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