DOWNEY - History was made Jan. 20 as President Barack Obama's inauguration was held in Washington's Congressional Mall with over 2 million people present to witness him swear in as the 44th President of the United States.Prior to the ceremony in which Obama took the oath of office, he attended the morning worship service, followed by the procession to the Capitol. Upon arriving to the Congressional Mall, Obama was cheered by many spectators, who are convinced that his presidency could potentially demonstrate an ease to racial discrimination. "[This presidency will not end racial discrimination completely], but it's a great moment in which minorities can see that anything is possible in America," said Warren High School history teacher David Cha. "This shows that the American dream is within all of our [reach]." Many Americans are optimistic that Obama will be capable to ease tensions not only between races, but countries as well. "I think that Obama's presidency will help end racial discrimination," said Warren High School student Luz Gardu?±o. "It will make countries more united and help us better understand each other." Obama inspired many viewers with his inaugural address when he spoke against those in the Middle East who judged Americans as being "immoral". "We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents," Obama said. "We say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you." These were the moving words that Obama said that induced hope in Americans. "Who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans," said Obama. "Their memories are short, for they have forgotten what this country has already done." Although Obama's ceremony had good reviews, prior to the event former President George W. Bush declared a state of emergency in order to pay for the expenses necessary to proceed with this historical event. A mistake that was strongly criticized by viewers was the fact that during the President's swearing-in ceremony, Chief Justice John Roberts misread the oath, which led to Obama repeating it incorrectly. Aware of the fact that Roberts had made a mistake, Obama paused and had him repeat it, but Roberts once again said it incorrectly. The following day, Obama asked to have a judge swear him in once more with the correct words to the oath. "I was confused at first, then it made me angry," said Warren High School student Andrea Elizalde. "It was one of the most important things [Roberts] could of done that day, and he messed up." Not many were happy with the mistake that was made, but others were able to accept that mistakes happen and sometimes are inevitable. "It is not a big deal at all," said Warren High School student Favian Briceno. "It is the last thing anyone should worry about, besides it's just something the media loves." The night concluded with the inauguration luncheon, parade and ball. The day will go down in history and will be remembered as people remeber when the Constitution was first established. ********** Published: January 30, 2009 - Volume 7 - Issue 41