With COVID-19 restrictions, the Biden-Harris inauguration Wednesday won't be the big celebration we are used to. But that won't keep the Bay Area from celebrating the historic moment.
Most supporters in the Bay Area will be joining virtual watch parties, but there is a special group from Oakland who will witness the moment in person, invited by Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.
“We're so happy to represent the Bay Area here in D.C.,” said Derreck Johnson who is part of a group of 20 people from Oakland who are in D.C.
He and Peter Monroe are preparing to see long-time friend Harris be sworn in as vice president.
“I'm not surprised,” said Johnson. “Kamala has always been determined and strived for bigger things. One of the proudest days of our life to watch our friend, sister, family, someone we've known for a long time become vice president of the United States.”
Also in Oakland, Mayor Libby Schaaf who says she is not only excited for the moment but proud. She says it was just two years ago at Oakland City Hall when she welcomed the crowd at Harris’s kickoff to her presidential run. And to see her make her way to the White House as vice president is a moment she will cherish.
"So that determination to bring justice to the people, that determination to bring diversity and inclusion to our country, these are pure Oakland values, and she makes us so proud as she exemplifies them every day," Schaaf said.
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Schaaf said she plans to watch the historic moment at home with her 13-year-old daughter wearing a T-shirt that was signed by Harris.
Elsewhere in the Bay Area, Debbie Mesloh will be watching the inauguration on Zoom with other former Harris staffers.
She says she is looking forward to seeing Harris make history, and get to work.
I think the swearing in was at two, we were in the DA's office at six working so, I guarantee she starts tomorrow,” said Mesloh.
In San Francisco, Manny's is decorating for a virtual watch party. It's expected to be a lively experience.
“It feels like we've finally reached where we wanted to reach for the last four years, feels amazing,” said Jupiter Peraza.
