American’s pride themselves on their democracy. They’re so proud of it, they spent an awful lot of money, resources and lives attempting to impose it on mineral and oil-rich countries across the world. They refer to the US general election, which happens on the first Tuesday in November every four years as ‘the greatest exercise in democracy’, their Capitol, where the second seat of Government sits, a temple to their democracy.
In the last few months, however, that democracy and that very temple have come under sustained attack. Following the general election last November, incumbent, and loser, Donald Trump refused to concede, instead propagating myths around stolen votes and widespread fraud. He encouraged his supporters out onto the streets and told them to march on the Capitol. And they did so, with deadly consequences.
Yesterday, the transition of power between the 45th and 46th President of the United States finally ended with the inauguration of Joe Biden on the steps of the Capitol. Following the January 6 insurrection, with the list of credible threats numerous, the streets of D.C. were empty. Normally inundated with supporters and well-wishers on inauguration day, they were instead replaced by some 25,000 National Guard who, along with an eight-foot security fence, protected the ceremony.
The joint threat of far-right terrorism and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic which has claimed over 400,000 lives in the US kept most well away. Despite this, a small cluster of Black Lives Matter demonstrators were present in the newly renamed Black Lives Matter Plaza, just next to the White House as Biden and Kamala were sworn in.
We sent photographer Wil Sands to D.C. to report on a once in a lifetime inauguration to get the view from the streets.
Terri McLane, 51, from Seattle, Washington came to the capital to show her support to the incoming president.
Ben Smoke is Huck’s Politics Editor. Follow him on Twitter.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
In photos: Black Texas life since emancipation
Kinship & Community — A new photobook and exhibition showcases the rich culture, history and community of African American folks in the Lone Star State, whose existence in the region predates colonial Britain.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Inside Parkuir: the art project queering sport, space and our bodies
Lie and play — Founded by Maria Laudes and Guiu Gimeno, it provides a framework for engaging, subverting, and celebrating the small details that make people unique – and queer.
Written by: Molly Lipson
Youthful joy & end-of-era poignancy at a London school prom
Leavers — For several years, Lewis Khan documented young people as they celebrated the last of their school days and the completion of their exams. The series is now collated in a new self-published photobook and short film.
Written by: Zoe Whitfield
Harry Gruyaert’s vintage, kaleidoscopic scenes of New York
A Sense of Place — For 50 years, the Belgian photographer and Magnum Photos member has been capturing NYC’s colourful chaos. A new photobook and exhibition showcase his unique, technicolour view of the city.
Written by: Miss Rosen
In the pit at one of the UK’s last stock car & banger speedways
Stock Car Racing Isn’t Dead — Photographer Liam McCarthy spent time in and around the Arlington Raceway’s circuit, capturing the diehard community that keeps the sport alive.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Inside Lower Duck Pond, the nicest town on the internet
/r/HaveWeMet — With a population of 2,500 and no fixed location, the subreddit is a space for roleplaying citizens to solve mysteries, host fictional events and ultimately connect. In an internet that’s often divided and toxic, Vicky Jessop hangs out in one of its most wholesome corners.
Written by: Vicky Jessop
