Today, our children know our country better by its politics than its traditions. I hope to change that this week in my Jr. High and High School civics classes by asking, “What are some of the Inauguration traditions that our country enjoys?”
Did you know there is a First Nail Ceremony? This event, with its roots deep in our nation’s history, celebrates the platform construction that will hold the incoming President and First Family, the Vice-President and his family, former Presidents, members of the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches, Cabinet members, dignitaries, and other invitees outside the Capitol for the Inaugural ceremony. The platform is made entirely new every four years to signify the beginning of the inaugural festivities. If interested, you can see more at the Architect of the Capitol website: https://www.aoc.gov/about-us/news-notices/special-exhibit-highlight-presidential-inaugurations
Morning Inauguration Day Traditions
Since Franklin Roosevelt’s first term in office, the President (or President-Elect) attends a worship or private prayer ceremony to begin the day. Historic St. John’s Episcopal Church (across from the White House) has been a traditional site for those attending a church service.
Following the worship service, the incoming President is escorted to the White House for tea and a brief meeting with the outgoing President. Traditionally, the incoming and outgoing Presidents ride to the Inauguration together.
The Inauguration
The Inauguration is held at high noon on January 20, a time-honored tradition. First, the Vice-President takes the oath of office; then, the President is sworn in. Customarily, the left hand is placed on a Bible while the right hand is raised to take the oath of office, administered by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court:
“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.” George Washington added, “So help me God.”
President George Washington gave the first Inaugural Address. This has become a tradition. The newly inaugurated President gives his vision for the country for the next four years. My students will be listening to find at least three goals the incoming administration sets for itself.
Post Inauguration
After the Inaugural Address, the new President wishes his predecessor farewell. The outgoing President and First Lady leave the Capitol to begin their return to citizen life outside of the White House.
While all of this transpires, the White House staff has five hours to move out the former President and move in the new Chief Executive and his family. My younger students find this fascinating. I’ll show the class a video of this quick transition to emphasize the smooth transition of power.
The Celebration
A traditional Inauguration Day Parade features bands and groups from all fifty states. The parade route extends from the Capitol to the White House down Pennsylvania Ave.
The new President and First Lady attend the inaugural ball, a grand celebration that has grown in size to double-digit locations. They can no longer attend all of them, so the President and First Lady must choose several locations, sharing a dance as the crowd looks on. The Inaugural Ball is a symbol of the unity and celebration that follows the peaceful transition of power, and it marks the beginning of the new President’s term in office.
The First Lady’s Ball gown is always a highlight. I have a poster that shows a rendering of all First Lady’s gowns since the first celebration in 1789 to share with my students.
Inauguration Day is full of wonderful traditions that connect us to our country’s beginnings. I feel fortunate to share this part of our American Heritage with my students and you!
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship.🇺🇸
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