OPINION: Hopeful Optimism: Biden’s diverse cabinet is just the beginning
Today, America breathed a sigh of relief as President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were sworn into office.
Yes, there is so much work to do. The current administration has inherited a nation more divided than ever; A four-year Trump Presidency brought issues once buried beneath America’s proverbial rug to the surface. Racial tension was already heightened pre-Trump, following the countless murders of unarmed Black men at the hand of law enforcement. But under Trump, racists, misogynists, homophobes, transphobes and xenophobes were emboldened to put their hate and intolerance on full display, all in the name of following through with Trump’s slogan to “Make America Great Again”. However, he did nothing of the sort.
After four years of turmoil, America now has hope again. It’s a nostalgic feeling; Obama’s message of “Change” in 2008 after a chaotic Bush Presidency was just what we needed to hear. However, the damage that Trump has done to America is far worse than Bush. America is in dire need of repair, and Americans are demanding that leaders make amends for the forces of bigotry, hate and White supremacy that have been allowed to run rampant throughout the years.
If there’s any indication that President Biden heard America’s pleas, it is the delivery of his promise to create a diverse cabinet — one that’s reflective of the country’s demographics. Over 50% percent of Biden’s cabinet picks have been people of color, which includes his pick for Vice President, Kamala Harris, who is the first Black and South Asian woman to hold the position. He has also made history by picking Dr. Rachel Levine as Assistant Health Seceretary, making her the first transgender woman to hold this position.
Many civil and human rights leaders have praised Biden for holding steadfast to his promise to create a diverse cabinet. However, many also recognize that this is only the first step. This cautious optimism is also justified, and America will be waiting to see if the Biden administration can continue to enact policies that lead to considerable change in the communities most affected by the Trump administration’s bigotry and ineptitude. This includes ensuring COVID-19 vaccine access to underserved communities, pushing for police reform, reversing anti-immigration policies, and reviving the economy.
With Trump out of office, these are all realistic possibilities. Biden’s administration is being watched, but with hopeful optimism instead of unrelenting doom. I have faith that the current administration has what it takes to actually — dare I say — make America great again.
