WASHINGTON – President Biden repeated his calls for unity during a brief opening speech at the Lincoln Memorial on Wednesday night.
Comments were made during the reduced “Celebrating America” inauguration concert, a virtual celebration that replaces the traditional black tie inauguration ball that was canceled due to the worsening of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Repeating the message of hope and unity that he delivered during his keynote speech after taking the oath of office, Biden urged Americans to face the challenges of the moment.
“It is humiliating to be here in this place in the face of these sacred words,” said Biden from inside the monument.
“Humiliation in respect of President Lincoln and the position we now share, and humiliation because of him, the American people,” he continued.
“This is a great nation. We are good people. And overcoming the challenges that lie ahead requires the most elusive of all things in a democracy: unity, ”said Biden.
“It requires us to unite in common love for what defines us as Americans: opportunity, freedom, dignity and respect, and we unite against common enemies: hatred, violence, disease and hopelessness.”
A who’s who from Hollywood was selected to perform at the Biden show, including Bruce Springsteen, who initiated proceedings with his 1999 song “Land of Hope and Dreams”.
Jon Bon Jovi, Justin Timberlake, John Legend, Demi Lovato, Foo Fighters and Tim McGraw are also heading the show.