WASHINGTON (AP) – The issue of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration will be “America United,” an issue that has long been a central focus of Biden, but which has gained additional weight as a result of violence in the United States. United States Capitol. last week.
In a first announcement shared with The Associated Press, the inaugural presidential committee said the issue “reflects the beginning of a new national journey that restores the soul of America, brings the country together and creates a path to a future brighter.
In line with the theme of the unit, the committee also announced that after its official inauguration, Biden, Vice President-elect Harris and their spouses will lay a wreath at the grave of the unknown soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. and will be joined by former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and their wives. It will be one of Biden’s first acts as president and a demonstration of bipartisanship at a time when national division is on display.
The focus on unity has characterized Biden’s presidency from the beginning, and has been said repeatedly since he won the White House that he believes unifying the country is one of his top priorities as president. But the scope and urgency of the challenge Biden faces became even clearer this week after President Donald Trump sparked an armed insurgency at the Capitol, spurred on by his repeated attempts to delegitimize Biden’s victory..
Trump himself skips the inauguration of Biden, a decision Biden said was a “good thing,” though Vice President Mike Pence and his wife plan to attend.
“This inauguration marks a new chapter for the American people: one of healing, of union, of union, of united America,” said Dr. Tony Allen, CEO of PIC. “It’s time to turn the page on this time of division. The inaugural activities will reflect our shared values and remind us that we are stronger together than we are apart, as our motto ‘e pluribus unum’ reminds us, of many, one. ”
The committee also announced plans for a major public art exhibit that would span several blocks of the National Mall that will include 191,500 U.S. flags and 56 light pillars, to represent all U.S. states and territories. After Biden asked Americans to stay home for his inauguration, the “Flag Camp” wants to represent “the American people who cannot travel” to the Capitol to celebrate their oath, according to the committee .
It is not the only era of COVID change at parties. Under restrictions on the number of people to slow the spread of the virus, Biden will have a significantly reduced opening, with traditional activities such as the parade and inaugural balls moving to a virtual format. But while the celebration itself will be minor, inauguration officials are preparing for a major security presence in preparation for what may be more pro-Trump demonstrations in Washington.