Presidential Inauguration Offers Lessons In Politics

By Larissa Lytwyn

Last year, Newtown High School’s social studies department began preparations to invite rising juniors and seniors to the 2005 Presidential Inauguration ceremony in Washington, D.C.

“The social studies teachers came into our classes to talk about the trip with us,” said senior Sarah Holroyd. “It would give us the opportunity to attend both the inaugural ceremony as well as see the parade and even take in some of the sights!”

Sarah said that while she had been to Washington, D.C., before, she never quite felt that she “had taken it all in.”

“The inauguration ceremony was something special that I could be part of, something historic,” said Sarah. “I found that very exciting!”

Sarah was not alone.

Almost 50 students initially expressed interest in the trip; 27 actually made the journey down to Washington, D.C.

“We signed up for the trip before we knew who would win the election,” said senior Kate Fielding. “It turned out that the majority of us were not pro-Bush!”

Kate, who said she comes from a “liberal” family, was still excited to go on the trip.

“I know how divided our country is right now,” she said. “Going on the trip allowed me to meet a lot of different people on both sides of the issues we’re facing right now.”

One of the biggest issues, not surprisingly, was the ongoing war in Iraq.

“Seeing all the protestors certainly gave me a taste of the other side,” said pro-Bush supporter Erin Costa. “But it was really great, too. It was nice to see how we can all peacefully assemble and have different thoughts and beliefs.”

Many of her fellow travelers agreed.

“I was really impressed by how everyone came together,” said Kate. “Part of the beauty of living in America is the ability to freely express our beliefs.”

She said she enjoyed the opportunity to “join together” with Bush protestors.

“It was cool being able to meet and talk with people who had similar politics as I did,” she said.

In addition to the inauguration, the students also were able to go visit a number of sites, including the newly built National World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (the Wall), and the National Holocaust Museum.

Many of the students said that the Holocaust Museum left a lasting impression on them.

“One thing that was really striking was just its intensity,” said trip attendee Shannon Bell. With a slight shudder, she recalled seeing the actual bunk beds used in Auschwitz.

“Seeing the inauguration was obviously an important part of history, something I was really happy to be a part of,” said senior Melissa Russell. “But it was also good to witness some other important aspects of history, such as the Holocaust Museum.”

Said Shannon, “The entire experience was a whirlwind experience, and one that I will truly never forget!”