DCYAC Members Witness History

Over the course of the next few days, DCYAC members will share pictures and stories from their inauguration experiences. From the swearing in and parade to the official Youth Ball, DCYAC members had a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness history in the making. Enjoy!

On January 20, 2009, I attended the inauguration parade. Since this year’s inauguration was a historical moment for African Americans, it was a wonderful experience. Despite the large crowds, the cold weather and difficulty in getting through security, I had a lot of fun. I got a chance to see President Obama get out his limo and walk down constitution Ave. with his wife Michelle Obama. I also got a chance to meet new people amongst the crowd in witnessing this experience. If you didn’t come out and celebrate this wonderful moment in history, it was your loss.

Tierra Glymph

11th Grade

School Without Walls Senior High School

On the night of the inauguration, I attended the first annual Peace Ball hosted by Busboys and Poets. The ball was a lot of fun and several important figures came to voice their appreciation for the newly elected president, Barack Obama. Everyone at the ball was at such a high energy from witnessing the life changing event a few hours before at the swearing in ceremony, and the ball lasted all the way untill 2 AM. However, my friends and I stayed till 12 that night because we had gotten tired since we had arrived to the ball at 5:30 that evening. We regretted leaving because just as we were exiting the postal museum, which was where the ball was held, Michael Franty and the Spearheads came on to sing. The band raised the intensity level severely and people began dancing and singing all over again as if the night had just begun. Overall, the ball was very exciting and was a perfect way to finish off the night after witnessing Obama officially becoming the next president of the United States.

Nina Shallal

11th Grade

School Without Walls Senior High School