Original Air Date:
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Guests:
- Gayle King
- Jon Bon Jovi
- Forest Whitaker
- Doris Kearns Goodwin
Oprah's Post-Inauguration Special:
Gathered at Art and Soul restaurant in D.C. for Oprah's post-inauguration special, Oprah, Gayle King, Jon Bon Jovi, Forest Whitaker and historian Doris Kearns Goodwin shared their experience of the event.
With evenings ending from midnight to 4 AM, the panel experienced all levels of President Obama's inauguration. Oprah shared how she felt that the country really came together to celebrate to which Doris responded that no other inauguration in history has ever been like Obama's.
What an Experience:
Everyone on the panel shared their thoughts on the historic event of the first African-American president being sworn in to office and moving into the White House, which was partially built by slaves. Forest Whitaker felt that the whole world was connected through this event because of the technology of the internet raising awareness to a new level. Jon Bon Jovi shared the experience with the 2 million people who crowded the mall; taking hundreds of pictures and feeling a part of something bigger than himself.
Change Is Gonna Come:
Jon shared pictures that were taken of him with President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama after the concert where he performed the song "Change Is Gonna Come" with Betty Lavette. The mentioning of this song led Gayle to share her thought on how the connection from 9/11 was born from tragedy, while the connection of the country now has been born from optimism. Jon extended the thought by stating how the 9/11 feelings were short lived because the country was not encouraged to work together and stay together.
Forest put it perfectly when he stated that a door was opened and hands were reached out after 9/11, but we didn't reach back to hold on to one another; instead, we closed the door - he felt that the door was again opened on Tuesday. Doris and Oprah expressed how President Obama thinks about the past, and sees himself in history - trying to learn from great presidents before him, such as Abraham Lincoln. Obama has revealed that he doesn't just want to hold the office, but wants to really do things and be remembered.
The Obama Family:
Images were shown of President and First Lady Obama sharing their first of many dances on inauguration night where they swayed to Beyonce's version of "At Last". The panel went on to share thoughts about the youth of the First Family and life the children bring to the White House. Commending Michelle Obama for her ability to withstand hours in high heals, Oprah went on to say that Sasha and Malia are as well rounded as they are, because they have been so loved and respected. Forest admired the President and First Lady for expressing love in public, and showing America that it is ok to love and heal.
Presidential Qualities:
Doris explained her take on the qualities a president must have to successfully run the country. They include self-confidence to surround yourself with people that question you, courage to stand strong, emotional strength to forget the past, and great communication to be straight with America. After Oprah stated that President Obama makes her want to be a better person, Jon expanded that to say that it's America's turn to fulfill our end of the bargain; to do our part to contribute to the change.
President Barack Obama's Inaugural Speech:
When asked about the quality of Obama's speech, Doris stated that it will be remembered through history for its great words. When Obama stated "America is ready to lead again" and "everybody should have the full measure of their happiness" during his speech, Doris announced how he will be remembered and will represent hope for people to fulfill their life's work, regardless of race.
Ali Wentworth from Starbucks:
Ali Wentworth appeared from Starbucks to announce the shop's "I'm In" pledge that ran from Wednesday, January 21st through Sunday, January 25th. Starbucks offered a free cup of coffee to anyone who pledged 5 hours of community service. The goal of the company was to match the 1 million hours of service the employees pledged.
Jon took a moment to applaud corporate America for doing something to benefit the community and not their bottom line. Mentioning how Target contributes $3 million each week to communities, he felt that people should know the companies making a difference.
Favorite Quotes and Moments:
The panel shared their favorite quotes from Obama's speech and sentiments from the day. The entire panel was moved when Obama stated that "you will be judged by what you build, not by what you destroy" and Jon also mentioned the line "we will extend a hand as long as you unclench a fist." Gayle was moved by the millions of flags being waved on the mall after the speech was over. Doris expressed the double thought of seeing an 80 year old African-American woman crying at the event, and the millions of minority youth who will wake up being able to see their life and potential differently.
America's Song:
Oprah ended the show with the reveal of the new "America's Song" video from David Foster and will.i.am.