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Inauguration Kid: Phillip goes to Washington
By Shaye Patton
IN THE MIDDLE Magazine
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Updated: April 29th, 2009

 

Phillip Ofuani, age 11, is a sixth grader at TMS who was able to raise money for a charter bus, drive about fifteen hours to Washington D.C, and witness President Barack Obama take the oath of office.

Although Ofuani says he does not show mush of an interest in the economy, he was extremely excited about his trip to the Inauguration of President Obama.  He knew he was going to be a part of the historical event of the first African-American President being sworn into office.

On the way to Washington D.C, Ofuani and his “crew” made multiple stops including one where he had to switch buses. When he finally arrived he was astounded by the massive crowd, and in the huge mass of people he even thinks he may have spotted famous people.  "I think I saw P. Diddy," he said.

Apart from admiring the crowd, Ofuani was able to explore some of Washington D.C. Meeting some war veterans was part of a tour; he was also able to see the Veterans' Flag and view pictures of famous veterans.

Even though Ofuani was having a lot of fun, the festivities were just about to begin. Barack Obama was being sworn in to become the President of the United States.  In the area where Ofuani was standing he could see President Obama swearing on Abraham Lincoln’s Bible on a giant jumbotron.  Unfortunately, he was not able to witness President Obama’s speech.

Ofuani says he had a great time but stated he would not ever want to become President.  "I don't want to have so much power or, always having your every move be watched by millions."

Although Ofuani had to stand in the cold and make multiple stops he says it was worth it all.  ”Going to the [Obama] Inauguration inspired me to do bigger and greater things in life.”

 
 
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