CAPAC Chair Statement on the Inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris
Washington, DC – Today, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) Chair Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) released the following statement congratulating Joseph Robinette Biden and Kamala Devi Harris on becoming the 46th President and Vice President of the United States:
“On behalf of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris as we begin new era for our country. As I made my way to my seat for the inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris this morning, I kept thinking about what a triumph of democracy it was to have this historic and moving ceremony right at the same site where rioters attacked the U.S. Capitol only two weeks before. A mere 14 days ago, I was hiding in my office for hours, terrified to open the door because I did not know if rioters who might attack, kidnap or murder me were on the other side. The rioters wanted to halt our democratic process, but today we saw the inauguration of a President who won in a free and fair election. And despite the violent threats, we came together and held a beautiful and moving inauguration ceremony that commemorated this consequential moment.
“I was filled with awe watching one of our former CAPAC members, California’s very own Kamala Harris shatter one of the highest glass ceilings of all and officially be sworn in as the first woman, first Asian American, and first Black Vice President in our nation’s history. And finally, with his speech, Joe Biden made clear that he is the right leader to get our country through these trying times. We are a nation reeling from 400,000 deaths due to the coronavirus. We are a nation divided by Trump who perpetuated the lies that the election was stolen. Joe Biden met the moment by delivering a speech that was unifying, sincere and empathetic. He upheld the strength of our democracy, showing that despite the attack, democracy has prevailed. But he also appealed to unity. He said his whole soul is in this effort to bring America together and finally unite our nation. He acknowledged those that supported him but also made a point to speak to those who did not vote for him, asking them to give him a chance, to hear him out. He proclaimed that he will be a president for all Americans, and that was powerful.
“With the leadership of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in the White House, I know that we will finally rebuild a more equitable, more just, and more compassionate America. And we in CAPAC look forward to joining them in that fight.”
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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.