It is an historic day for our nation. Against the backdrop of a divided country punctuated by violence, today’s inauguration of Joe Biden as our 46th President carried a message brimming with hope and optimism for the days to come. Despite our differences, our nation continues to exist as a great democracy. It is a beacon of light and hope in the world. A democracy that works and a democracy that can be strong as any nation on earth when we work together.
“This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope. Of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages, America has been tested anew and America has risen to the challenge. Today, we celebrate that triumph not of a candidate, but of a cause. The cause of democracy.”
– Joe Biden, President, United States of America
Like so many individuals and organizations around the Pacific Northwest and across our nation, we have been dismayed by the growing divisiveness and “othering” within our communities. The breakdown of constructive discourse and productive debate. And yet, we know that through strong, collaborative leadership at all levels in all sectors of our society, we can change our current trajectory.
“We can see each other not as adversaries but as neighbors. We can treat each other with dignity and respect. We can join forces, stop the shouting and lower the temperature. For without unity, there is no peace, only bitterness and fury. No progress, only exhausting outrage. No nation, only a state of chaos.”
– Joe Biden, President, United States of America
But this work will take all of us. As noted in her beautiful words shared during the inauguration, Youth Poet Laureate, Amanda Gorman reminds us that “when days come, we ask ourselves where can we find light in this never ending shade.” Where can we all help bring light in to defeat the darkness.
“So we lift our gaze to not what stands between us but what stands before us. […]
While democracy can be periodically delayed, it can never be permanently defeated. […]
There is always light if we are brave enough to see it. Only brave enough to be it.”
– Amanda Gorman, United States Youth Poet Laureate
We congratulate President Biden on his election and his commitment to build bridges and seek common ground to serve all Americans. We applaud all who commit to moving forward in a spirit of unity and a desire to serve the common good. We are excited to recommit to this effort in our work partnering with those who wish to strengthen our democracy, practice civility and invest in organizations and leaders that share this spirit to listen, serve, and build up the communities in which we work, live, and play.
“With unity, we can do great things. Important things.”
– Joe Biden, President, United States of America
Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
