"Black is in now, black is in vogue and that hasn’t happened since the 1960s when there was enormous interest in African history. I am hopeful that Obama’s presence will flow over, particularly to young people, and that they will take pride in their magnificent history," said historian Kwaku Person-Lynn, who teaches a course in Afrikan World Civilizations at Kaos Network, a cultural center in Leimert Park.

What started as "Negro Week" in the late 1920s became Black History Month in the 1970s, and included lectures, exhibitions, banquets, cultural events and television and radio programs celebrating the achievements of African-Americans. February was chosen because it marks the birthdays of two of the most important people who shaped the future of blacks in America–Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

This year, there is even more cause for celebration. Besides Obama holding the highest office in the country, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), one of the oldest and most influential civil rights organizations in the United States, is celebrating its centennial year.

"It’s unfortunate, but I think we’ve lost interest in our history and that’s due to parents not making an effort. I am very disappointed in the youth these days–wearing sagging pants, showing underwear–it’s foolishness, for which I give no credence whatsoever," said Jabari Jamani, founder of the AFIBA cultural center in Crenshaw.

He sees Obama’s election as a very positive and timely act and said it was high time that white Americans saw someone other than a white man or woman in a seat of leadership. "It’s been proven now that we can accept something other than an image of white male domination and I think that’s good for the youth," he said. Can a child be in a seat of leadership?

Like some people who have protested through the years, both Lynn and Jamani are against the idea of having a particular month dedicated to black history. "This month, the enthusiasm will be up for sure, but it remains to be seen whether or not it is genuine. I’m not sure yet whether this (Obama) will be a springboard for renewed interest in black history and culture," said Jamani, adding that cultural events for the community should be held through the year, regardless of the flavor of the season.

Teachers at the Crenshaw High School are doing just that. Post Inauguration Day, they have tailored lesson plans to include more discussions on black history. "Obama has spurred a deep interest in black historical figures and black freedom struggles. He has inspired a surge among our students in knowing about current issues in the black community," said Alex Caputo-Pearl, lead teacher of the Social Justice and Law Academy at the school.

Crenshaw, populated by a majority of African Americans, is an important place to generate enthusiasm in black history and culture, said Jamani. "The Korean community on Olympic Boulevard is a fraction of the black community in Crenshaw, yet they have displayed signs in their language everywhere. Even though the rest of the world can’t read their language, they are not afraid to express themselves. Crenshaw Boulevard should be like that for Afro Americans," he said.

Starting this week, like all the years before, Los Angeles will feature dances, films and poetry readings. One of the biggest events to look out for is the Pan African Film and Arts Festival, beginning later this week. And then there are organizations like the Kaos Network, a community arts center in Leimert Park that celebrate Black History Month all through the year.

But this year, most people agree that the dancers will leap a little higher, the music will linger a little longer and the lectures will be a little more passionate.

Putting faith and/or politics aside, residents of Culver City and neighboring churches sat together in a darkened room as a projector displayed the events in Washington D.C. above a crowd that applauded and stood together during this historic event.

"I’d put this (presidential inauguration) up there with the moon landing for real history events in my life," said event organizer Theresa Basile, who was visibly excited as she hurried around the venue making sure guests were taken care of. Basile, a member of MoveOn.org, helped organize the event and advertise through the website.  

Sharing the same sentiment and excitement, the racially mixed crowd watched as the first African-American president was sworn into office. Cheers erupted and party horns blared as the crowd watched the broadcast live, clapping when Obama first appeared onscreen.

Not everyone in Washington received applause, however: hisses and boos were heard when former President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney were introduced.

"Cheney’s out!" one attendee yelled as Sen. Joseph Biden was sworn in as vice president. Although the event was non-partisan by description, this crowd showed its political leanings with applause then riveting silence, as Obama became president of the United States. Speeches by various speakers were punctuated with bursts of clapping from the group gathered at this church.

"To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society’s ills on the West – know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy," said Obama, as viewers in Culver City watched and cheered.

Heads nodded in agreement as Obama continued his inaugural address, showing that this crowd was eager to hear more of what their new president had to say. The six tables in the hall were packed with attendees, with more lining the walls on chairs hastily brought out to accommodate the growing crowd.

While most taking part in the event were excited about the change in government, others were wary of giving President Obama undeserved praise.

"To be frank, I don’t know (what Obama’s inauguration signifies) yet," said Vietnam veteran Donald V. Moore. "Knowing what I know about people, politics, greed and motivating factors, I only have (Obama’s) words to go on at this point. It’s day one; I’ll be keeping a close eye."

Moore, who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, acknowledged the historical significance of Obama’s election in his own life.

"I’ve had glimpses (of previous presidential inaugurations). They really meant absolutely nothing to me personally, as a black African American," said Moore. "All of the (racial) barriers haven’t been broken (with this presidency), but the minds and pocketbooks of the rich are opening to all people of color."

"I hope. I believe," said Moore, pausing. "But I’m not sure yet."

The lights turning on in the darkened hall, the crowd moved from their seats to flock towards the modest buffet laid out during the speeches. Parishioners of the church hugged each other as strangers introduced themselves and became new friends, united in this event. Others took photos to commemorate the day, posing with loved ones or Obama memorabilia.

"It’s nice to see everyone come together," said Aleks Gonzalez, an attendee who carried her own camera to document the event. "That’s what this president is encouraging. I thought it would be fun (to watch this with a group."

The crowd was a mix of the elderly and the young, with two children playing happily together in the room. Red and white leis were distributed at the start of the program, with several attendees festively wearing the decorative necklaces. A few wore paper hats adorned with the American flag, proudly displaying their patriotism. This crowd was jovial and celebratory; a cake on one table read, "Congratulations, Mr. President!" in bold, red frosting.

Judith Martin-Straw, a writer with the Culver City News, was there to cover the event and shared her enthusiasm for the new administration.

"It’s the new era – it’s not just the Democrats taking over the presidency," said Martin-Straw. "It’s about changing how we work with the government."

With plastic champagne glasses held high in the air, those who remained after the speeches toasted the new president with sparkling cider, 2,600 miles away from Washington D.C. This small group, tucked away in a church in Culver City, was not able to be there in person, but was there in spirit.

The day was especially meaningful in communities such as South Los Angeles, site of violent race riots over the years and home to a largely minority population.

At Foshay Learning Center, hundreds of people, including students, teachers, and community members, packed the school auditorium to watch the inauguration events on a giant television screen. The event was organized by Community Coalition, a nonprofit organization founded in 1990 that works with African American and Latino residents of South Los Angeles to build more prosperous and productive neighborhoods.

Since he announced his candidacy for president in February 2007, Obama has espoused the twin promises of hope and change – motifs he extolled during his inaugural address and which, on this day, were not lost on the students and members of this community.

South Los Angeles resident Andru Pervenue anticipates a new era for the country.

"This shows what Americans can accomplish when they pull together. I’m hoping for a new mindset. This is a new day in this country," he said.

Obama opened his speech and his presidency allaying the nation’s fears but also challenging its citizens to work and sacrifice for one another much like their ancestors had done for them in the past.

"On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord," he said.

In closing, Obama alluded to the hopeful spirit of the nation’s first president as he crossed the icy Delaware River uncertain of what the future held for him and his rag-tag army.

"America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words," said Obama. "With hope and virtue, let us brave these icy currents, and endure what storms may come."

As the new president spoke, tears streamed down the faces of people in the auditorium. South Los Angeles resident, Ira Anderson, said, "I’m doing great right now. Wonderful. I couldn’t be better."

Both before and after Obama’s address, community leaders and students spoke to the hundreds gathered, encouraging them to take the new president’s message and put it into practice.

Foshay principal Veronique Wells reminded students it was never too late to make changes for the better. She recounted how when he was a young man at Occidental College, President Obama became involved in situations he realized were detrimental to his future. The changes he made, said Wells, enabled him to one day hold the highest government office in the nation. She encouraged members of her community to organize for personal and social change.

Richard Aviles, a senior student at Foshay who wants to attend college in Minnesota, said he had been looking forward to this day for a long time.

"Today I walked down the street proud of being gay and being Latino," said Aviles.

Aviles believes the message of change and hope attracted many youth like him to the Obama campaign. He takes pride in having helped elect the nation’s first minority president.

He says Obama’s victory is not only a triumph for the African-American community but for the Hispanic community as well.

"The struggles of our cultures are different but our fight is the same. It’s very meaningful because he is a representation of that fight," said Aviles.

Aviles hopes to bring change to his community by asking city officials for more money for education and fighting to reduce gang violence.

Another senior at Foshay, Jeffreda Clark, said President Obama has changed her outlook on her own future.

"I did not think, even two years ago, that a black person could become president of the United States," said Clark.

But now things are different.

"He shows us that we can become anyone we want in politics. Words cannot express how I feel today. It’s a historic moment for all minorities," said Clark.

Community Coalition chose to have the watching party at Foshay Learning Center because of the impact the inauguration could have on youth and the school’s involvement in the community. Coalition organizers, such as Lizette Hernandez, expressed similar feelings to the students they hope to inspire.

Hernandez said it’s a proud day for both the black and Latino communities.

"Our communities have been oppressed by the same forces," said Hernandez. "We have fought alongside one another for so many decades and today I feel proud. It has opened up many roads for opportunities."

"We want the kids to know that they are part of this journey. They will be building on the work of past generations and it up to them to transcend race and take it to the next level," she said.

Mattie Marie Jones, a senior citizen, came to the inauguration with other members from her senior center in South Los Angeles. Born in Arkansas, she has lived in South Los Angeles for more than 50 years and witnessed the various, often violent, phases of the Civil Rights movement.

"I was very peaceful," she said. "This morning, I felt it was going to be a peaceful day in my life."

She believes President Obama will serve to inspire minority children but that’s only half the battle.

"I think he’s a good example for children. However, youth have to be willing to make this change. It’s not just about Barack alone. It’s about the individuals," she said.

President Obama’s supporters came from all races and ages on this day in this community. South Los Angeles resident, Andru Pervenue, felt it was an unbelievable day for all members of the community.

"Im feeling great. I only hope that this jubilation lasts the entire eight years," he said.

The crowd hissed and booed as members of the outgoing administration took their seats on stage.  Their angry chants grew louder when the camera turned to President George Bush.

Event organizer Theresa Basile, saw the inauguration as a chance to bring her community together.  Since she couldn’t make it to Washington she did the next best thing — she threw a party at the Culver-Palms Methodist Church.

"I wanted to organize something that would live up to the Washington experience," Basile said.  She is an active member of moveon.org and the Methodist Federation for Social Action, an independent organization that promotes peace and justice through the Methodist Church.

The mid-sized church auditorium was more sparsely decorated than Basile would have liked, partly because she was too busy cooking for the more than 45 people who signed up to attend the event within hours of the ceremony.  Still, American flag centerpieces adorned six tables, along with kazoos, American flag hats and patriotic leis.

About 60 people filled the room, all facing the large pull-down projection screen, watching the ceremony that many could not believe was finally happening.  A tearful crowd shouted in approval as President Obama delivered his inaugural address. 

Georgia Malsich, a Culver City accountant, could hardly contain her excitement as she hugged strangers and cheered as President Obama walked on stage. "This is the first time so many people are gathered here for something peaceful.  It’s happiness.  I’m just so excited," she said. "He’s only one year older than me. We grew up with the Civil Rights movement, and this is our generation stepping up and saying it’s our turn."

Malsich and others showed up at the church’s inaugural brunch.  Some had stayed home from school to share the moment with their families, others dropped by before heading to work, a little late of course.  Still there were some people who took the entire day off to celebrate with the community and watch as Obama was sworn in as the 44th President of the United States.

The Rev. Louis Chase, a pastor at Hamilton United Methodist Church, hopes Obama can rebuild America peacefully and avoid the destruction of war. For him, the inauguration was more than just a peaceful transfer of power.

"This is the beginning of positive and transformative change in the U.S. for the good of the whole world.  It’s a pivotal historical moment given that this president is the first African-American to hold this office," Chase said. "I hope that his policies will meet the laws of the international community, decisions will not be unilateral and we’ll seek to create a world of peace rather than war."

To the multi-racial community assembled at the inaugural brunch, Obama is more than just the first African-American president.  Chase said the huge crowds in Washington are "an indicator of the support he has, not because he is black but because of his ability, integrity and commitment to be a national leader."

Lisa Perry and her 14-year-old daughter, Ricca, took the morning off from work and school to share the historic moment together. She remembers watching the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on her black and white television as a child, and said the possibilities that Obama brings to her and her daughter are phenomenal.

"He’s biracial so everybody can see him as their own," Lisa Perry said. "He’s African-American, Caucasian, and grew up in an Asian home, so when he says he understands, he really does understand. A combination so unique and unifying has to be a product of god because how else could such great things happen all at once."

As a social worker, Lisa Perry said the negative and greedy atmosphere in society is sending the wrong message to the youth of America.  Young people, she said, have become discouraged and let down by life because they have learned to equate success with money.  Obama’s message of hard work is just what the families she works with need to hear. "Materialism is not the sum total of success," and that’s what she believes Obama will bring back to American families.

Voter turnout in this year’s presidential election for young Americans, those between the ages of 18 and 29, was the second highest ever, according to CNN.  Fifty-five percent of those eligible to vote in that demographic showed up at the polls, according to Rock the Vote.  With 66 percent of those votes going to Obama, it is clear that he has bridged a generational divide.  Even for those too young to cast a ballot, Obama’s message was heard loud and clear.

"He knows what he wants and he’s sticking with it," said Ricca Perry, an 8th grader at Frederick KC Price III School. "He’s not changing his mind.  He’s sticking to exactly what he said at the beginning."

While millions gathered in Washington, D.C., Womack joined hundreds of students, faculty, community leaders, and local residents in the auditorium of Foshay Learning Center to celebrate the inauguration of President Barack Obama on Tuesday. Foshay partnered with organizers of Community Coalition, a non-profit organization that works with residents of South L.A. to provide locals with a safe and healthy community, to watch Obama take the oath of office, effectively becoming the 44th president of the United States.

The inauguration of President Obama marks a milestone in South L.A.–a community with a large African-American base. Unfortunately, the city has struggled for decades, with problems such as crime, drugs, and poverty.

On Tuesday, however, the diverse crowd, consisting of people of different ages, cultures, and racial backgrounds, collectively cheered and waved American flags back and forth at the nation’s new leader, unable to contain their elation. Some people in the crowd believe an African-American commander-in-chief symbolizes a new chapter within the community; they hope the presidency will bring about concrete change in South L.A, as well as the world. Most were merely in disbelief of the significant occasion.

"I grew up in Alabama, so as I watched him stand on the steps and take that oath, a bunch of memories from my childhood and a lot of the aspects of segregation in the South (resonated with me). I think about my grandparents, I think about my parents, I think about teachers and mentors that I’ve had who have tried to inspire good character…I just think of so many things they’ve experienced. It’s very emotional," Womack said.

Yasuda Aisha, 36, from Nebraska, missed the inaugural address, but described the impossible feat Obama had to overcome.

"Something was done that no one ever thought could be done. I wish my mom was alive right now to see this monumental moment. This is a wonderful feeling for all of us," said Aisha.

Sharon Downs, 46, who has worked at Foshay for 17 years as a teacher’s aide, was unable to dry her tears as she spoke of the nation’s leader.

"We have a new President; a new African-American president. It’s a beautiful thing. It means…peace and love and joy…everybody is supposed to get along, no matter the color or the race. It’s a beautiful day today," she said.

Romy Phillips, 47, a yoga instructor from Santa Monica, said she was overwhelmed with emotion watching Obama recite the oath of office.

"I was crying. The thought of it is amazing to me. I think during the whole campaign, I was excited, but now it actually happened.  We turned a corner in our lives," said Phillips.

Although Obama signifies a notable change, Phillips knows it won’t be done by the president himself.

"His speeches are inspiring, and he’s saying we’re all going to have to work hard to make these changes happen; but they’re not going to happen without us all making a collective effort," she said.

Mae Wallace, 81, a member of Community Coalition, recalled her personal hardships as Obama was being sworn into office. She was forced to raise herself after losing her mother at the age of 10.

"I was born and raised on a plantation. I went through a lot," she said.

Wallace said she never believed the day would come where an African-American would become the commander-in-chief. Now she’s excited to share this day with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

"You know what? I feel good. I feel good that nothing is racial…we are coming together. Because I don’t love colors. I love people," Wallace said.

Similar to Wallace, Sylvia Hull, 63, never believed she would see an African-American president in her lifetime–let alone right now.

"Never, never, never! All the way up to the time he was nominated, I didn’t believe it. It happened and I did not believe it really happened," she said.

Hull said Obama finally represents the nation as a united front.

"He represents everybody coming together. Togetherness," she said.

From a 63-year-old woman to a 16-yr-old high school junior, the message was the same.

"The whole community just joined; we’re together. It’s such a great experience. I’ll be able to reflect on this later in the years, and tell other people, ‘yes, we were together in the auditorium and we were cheering!’" And we were just together and enjoying this moment," said Edlin Velasquez, a student at Foshay.

While most people were overcome with the image of an African-American head-of-state, others hoped this would inspire real change within the community.

In his 20-minute inaugural speech, Obama said "we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age." The crowd at Foshay cheered loudly.

Hull believes Obama should begin his presidency with this promise of higher learning.

"(We should) make sure the children are educated. Start with education. And educate parents so they can get better jobs, so they can take better care of their children," she said.

"I was born in poverty," Hull continued. "I had God in my heart and that’s why I’ve been able to make it. But people in South Central need help."

Keshia Sexton, 24, a member of the Community Coalition, believes Obama’s background as a community organizer gives hope to those in the community.

"It was very emotional to see him being elected; to see someone from a community organizing perspective to be in office. Hopefully he’ll work with the people to bring about the changes we need in South L.A. and throughout the world," she said.

Karume James, 24, a community organizer, said Obama’s inauguration reminded him of the history of activism, as well as the community members who helped make his presidency a reality.

"What’s going to make the biggest impact is whether or not the same community people who were there for his election, the same people who were there for the nomination… if they are the ones who stand up. That’s what will make this historic moment real," James said.

"This is an exciting day, but now the real work begins," he said.