Hey News-Changers!

As you probably already know, today’s a big day for the country as we transition to a new presidency. There’s still a lot of uncertainty and anxiety regarding the Inauguration after the violent Pro-Trump attacks of Jan. 6, and it’s understandably stressful for a lot of folks. Keep scrolling for more context on how this Inauguration is different than ever before, and what comes next.

(And remember to practice self-care and step back from the news if you feel yourself getting overwhelmed by it all.)

Let’s Do This,

Jackie

Historic Firsts, COVID Considerations, and Heightened Security: Today’s Inauguration Is Like No Other Before It

Today President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will take the oath of office and officially begin their four-year term. (Find out how to watch it here.)

Between the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the aftermath of the deadly pro-Trump Capitol riots, all eyes are on today’s Inauguration to see how our deeply divided country will move forward. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s Historic About This Inauguration?

Kamala Harris will become the first woman, Black American, and South Asian America to hold the vice presidential office. (And marching band students from her alma mater Howard University will be escorting her!)
Joe Biden will become the oldest president in US history at 78 years old.
As a pandemic-era inauguration, the ceremonies are going to look a lot different than they usually do, including significantly smaller attendance and physical distancing protocols.

Security Tightens and DC Braces for Potential Violence In the Wake of Capitol Riots

The Capitol is now surrounded by a seven-foot fence, and a security perimeter has been established around it.
Up to 25,000 National Guard members have been deployed to Washington, DC, and a dozen have allegedly been removed from duty due to security concerns.
Several blocks of downtown DC around Capitol Hill, the White House, and the National Mall are closed, with access only for residents and businesses.

How Is the Inauguration Being Celebrated Remotely?

A virtual Parade Across America will replace the usual inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue, and it’ll feature famous performers, athletes, and viral TikTok skateboarder Nathan Apodaca.
The Celebrating America TV special will follow the inauguration, with performances from Lin-Manuel Miranda, Demi Lovato, John Legend, and more.

What Comes Next?

Biden has promised to take several actions on “day one” of the presidency. He’s expected to rejoin the Paris climate agreements and World Health Organization, end the Muslim travel ban and transgender military ban, and extend the federal eviction moratorium and student loan forbearance in light of COVID-19.
Within his first 100 days, Biden intends to roll out more pandemic relief and recovery initiatives, create a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, and set goals to tackle the climate crisis.
Folks are committing to continue to hold the Biden administration accountable for enacting real change this presidential term, and young leaders are already asking for ways to formally make their voices heard.

Why aren’t more people talking about… how 13 states have introduced legislation attacking trans kids’ rights?

Meanwhile, in Canada… vaccine shortages pose a threat to Indigenous people and other high-risk communities.

My hero today is… 13-year-old Trey Sheppard, who wrote a book to help kids like him cope with the stress of the pandemic.

My *other* heroes today are… the all-female healthcare team that delivers COVID vaccines via snowmobile to Alaska’s rural elders.

This week in Black joy… 22-year-old National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman will become the youngest poet to ever recite at a presidential inauguration.

Today in viral cuteness… puppy dog hugs a goose.

I’m obsessed with… Pudgy the chihuahua (@Pudgywoke) on TikTok.