Inauguration Theme: "Renewing America's Promise"

By: Brian Montopoli
Topics: White House

The Presidential Inaugural Committee has announced the theme for Barack Obama's inauguration: Renewing America's Promise. In a news release, the PIC says the theme underscores Obama and Joe Biden's "commitment to restoring opportunity and possibility for all and re-establishing America's standing as a beacon of hope around the world."

The organization also released a preliminary schedule of inauguration events. The day before the inaugural ceremony, Obama and Biden will perform community service; the day after, they will participate in a prayer service. Full schedule, as outlined by the PIC, below:

Sunday, January 18th
The schedule of official inaugural activities will begin with a welcome event on Sunday afternoon that is open to the public.

Monday, January 19th - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
In 1994, to further commemorate a man who lived his life in service to others, Congress transformed the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday into a national day of community service. To honor Dr. King's legacy, the President-elect and Vice President-elect and their families, like Americans in communities all across the country, will participate in activities dedicated to serving others in communities across the Washington, D.C. area.

Tuesday, January 20th - Inauguration Day
The President-elect and Vice President-elect and their families will participate in the traditional inaugural ceremonies and events, including the swearing-in ceremony on the West Front of the United States Capitol, a luncheon in the Capitol's Statuary Hall, the 56th Inaugural Parade, and official Inaugural Balls. Details about the Inaugural Balls will be released at a later date.

Wednesday, January 21st
The newly-inaugurated President and Vice President of the United States will participate in a prayer service.