by S. Rotan Hale
Regardless of one’s political affiliation getting an invitation to the State of the Union Address is something people of a certain consciousness only dream of. Then there are those who think of the event as just politics as usual – never really understanding that politics and religion have and always will be major factors in the structuring of societies in the relentless struggle to maintain civility. Like it or not politics and religion are among the major elements that govern our lives.
And so it was through an invitation from Congressman Ben Cline (R-VA 6th District) that I was afforded the opportunity to attend an event of the highest political significance. There I sat, in the United States Congressional Hall in Washington DC listening to President Joe Biden as he spoke to a newly elected 118th Republican-led congress and the world.
As an African American born in the early ’50s, I’ve witnessed the harsh realities of the blood-stained civil rights era through the 60s and I’m fully aware of the struggles since. Therefore an event of such magnitude and historic significance speaks to certain sensitivities particularly felt by one of such an era and consciousness.
Yet, the true majesty of such a high-profile event is far greater than one can ever imagine until you’re seated in the grand hall filled with the energy of some of the world’s greatest minds.
Making my way through the press-lined walkway I strolled with dignitaries, celebrities, and others from all walks. I found myself shoulder to shoulder with Congressman James Clyburn, (D-SC) one of the more powerful and effective voices on the Hill. I’m a hugger and he gave in to a good one as did Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) who was extremely gracious to be the courageous congressional warrior that she is in her fight for everyday people.
Once seated, to my right was famed lawyer Ben Crump who actually had just recently visited, Roanoke. To my left, I noticed Ben Carson the brain surgeon once appointed Head of Housing by former president Trump.
It took a while for the thunderous applause to settle as the president and Vice President Kamala Harris entered the hall and proceeded to the podium. During Biden’s opening remarks, Nancy Pelosi, a truly formidable leader who recently stepped down as Speaker of the House was recognized for her years of incredible service. The president proudly recognized Hakeem Jeffries, the first African American Minority Leader of the House. The parents of Tyre Nichols, another young Black man slain by rogue cops were among several civilians recognized by the president.
“Let’s commit ourselves to the words Tyre’s mom said, “Something good must come from this,” Biden repeated as the crowd erupted in tribute to Nichol’s couple who stood in somber reverence. Sitting with them was none other than Bono a social activist and lead singer with the famed supergroup U2.
Plagued with years of listening to and sparing with seasoned democratic orators, Republicans sat stone-faced while many others in the chamber stood applauding throughout Biden’s masterfully delivered speech that spoke of the “progress and resilience” achieved through bipartisan collaboration and much support from countless constituents.
What a comfort it was to hear the leader of the free world speak boldly and passionately of achievements and policies that directly apply to the basic needs of middle-class Americans.
“When the middle class does well the poor have a ladder up and the wealthy still do very well,” he said to rouse applause from both sides of the room. It was a feat that would reoccur several times throughout the night as the president delivered encouraging news regarding a number of significant issues such as jobs, the economy, prescription drug costs, expanding Medicaid, and other issues that brought both sides of the chamber to their feet with rousing applause.
Biden’s speech covered a lot of ground promoting sensible solutions to real issues that affect all Americans in the struggles we all face.
Polls show approval of Biden’s speech at 72% among Americans, unlike a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll that showed his approval prior to the speech at 41%. One factor fueling his low numbers among many respondents is the president’s age. Yet at 80 being the oldest president in history, Biden proved his clarity and wit sharp and snappy even when heckled at times by several outspoken Republicans including Congresswoman Margorie Taylor Greene who stood calling him a “liar” at one point. “Imagine that!”
But let’s be clear, with age comes experience, and considering his 50-year career in politics Biden is flooded with experience for which there is no substitute particularly when handling critical foreign and domestic matters as president of the most powerful nation on the planet.
Still, the big question looms, as war rages in Ukraine. How do we achieve peace for ourselves, and for others around us, and one that will ultimately spread throughout this world so fraught with strife, unimaginable unrest, and a war in Europe that continues to worsen? Biden pledged continuous support to Ukraine in their fight against Russia and recognized the country’s ambassador Oksana Markarova who stood with her hand on her heart in gratitude for America’s support.
Speeches from compassionate leaders like Joe Biden inspire and enable us with hope as we strive for a more peaceful and balanced world. Hope potentially transports us to a higher level of consciousness strengthening our ability to manage life’s challenges that often seem insurmountable.
As one who strives to respect all cultures and the people thereof, I’ve never been one steeped in nationalism – guided by the understanding that God made us all. Nevertheless, I will forever treasure those precious moments at the State of the Union Address listening to a president’s speech that awakened my allegiance and brought me face-to-face with the greatness that is America.
There is a world of people Congressman Ben Cline could have invited to the address and for whatever reason he chose me, I will be eternally grateful and salute his efforts to reach across the aisle giving me the opportunity to experience such a momentous event as the State of the Union Address.
