Barbara Christie, 54, broke into tears as she watched Barack Obama become the first African-American to take the presidential oath of office.
“I never thought I’d see this in my lifetime,” Christie said, following the oath. “I’m just so happy. My grandbaby has the opportunity to never feel what I’ve felt. To never be told ‘no’ because of the color of her skin. This is a true turning point.”
Christie watched the inaugural festivities in the Hoosier Room along with 150 other members of the IUS community at a watch party hosted by the IUS College Democrats.
Attendees partook in cake and punch provided by the hosts, and some posed next to a life-sized cardboard cutout of the new president. Inaugural ceremonies were shown live on the big screen.
“For this to happen the day after Martin Luther King Jr. Day, well, it couldn’t have been written like this,” Christie said. “King would be crying, I’m sure he’s crying in heaven. This is a dream come true.”
She was quick to emphasize the many challenges the new president faces. “People claim to want change, but many people don’t realize what it takes,” Christie said. “Change means becoming uncomfortable in the face of new ideas. It won’t be easy.”
She was the guest of John Ryan, business major.
“He’s the man of the future,” he said. “I’m really excited about his education policies. I have high hopes.”
Christie said she agrees. “He’s really going to have to focus on education, and he has a great plan,” she said. “If we educate, then the doors really start to open, creating new opportunities and jobs.”
Tamara Davis, political science major and president of IUS College Democrats, was moved by President Obama’s inaugural address.
“It was inspiring and moving,” Davis said. “It was just awesome. What more could you ask for in a speech?”
Davis said she was excited about the prospect of Obama’s presidency.
“His goals are definitely attainable,” Davis said. “Considering he has a majority in both chambers of congress, he’ll basically be able to push through any kind of legislation he wants. But I’m sure he’ll listen to the American public and what they want.”
By ZAK OWENS
Staff Writer
zowens@ius.edu