Reflecting on this historic day, especially in the light of yesterday's MLK Day of Service , I am struck by the spirit of civic engagement and national service that seems to be sweeping the country. In his ignauration speech the new president declared "for everywhere we look, there is work to be done". This sentiment is backed up by his strong commitment to getting things done which he displayed yesterday by participating in the MLK Day of Service. (Check out these articles about President Obama's service from the Boston Globe and White House Website). President Obama reminded the nation "what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to a common purpose". I feel lucky to witness the results of the nation's creative and drive to service daily as I work with our dedicated Literacy AmeriCorps members. Our members not only dedicate themselves to a year of service but take on this call to action once they leave our program. The large number of our alumni who continue in the adult education field or pursue other roads of service like working for the State Department, starting their own non-profits, or seeking more education so they may teach the next generation highlights the life long commitment to service that AmeriCorps helps foster.

In addition to his dedication to service, it must be noted how significant this day is in terms of our country's racial past.  "Because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass," the President said in his speech. And as a Historian who focused on race relations, the promise that the inauguration of the nation's first Black president brings is uplifting and especially significant as it falls the day after MLK Day. Today the "promissory note" that Dr. King called upon in his "I Have a Dream Speech" is one step closer to being fully cashed. 

I look forward to the next four years. I encourage everyone to get involved and make a commitment to "Get Things Done" in 2009 and beyond!

Ways to Get involved:

• Join AmeriCorps!
• Volunteer 
• Donate to a good cause (like the Literacy Alliance!)
• Get Involved and answer the President's call to service