Inaugurations are momentous occasions, filled with all of the pomp and circumstance that is befitting of our most sacred democratic traditions. The office of governor was established in 1776 and was originally elected annually by the state legislature for a term of no more than three years. Patrick Henry, the firebrand patriot and founding father, who famously said, “Give me liberty or give me death,” was the first post-colonial Governor of Virginia and served from 1776-1779. Since then, there have been 73 elected governors to the highest executive office in the Commonwealth.
Gov. Ralph Northam assumed his place in this cabal of esteemed gentlemen this past Saturday, promising to bring greater transparency and accessibility to the office, while at the same time laying out his vision for Virginia. The inauguration was a celebration of inclusivity which showcased the vast diversity of the Commonwealth and included performances by Larry Bland and the Volunteer Choir, a blessing ceremony by Virginia’s First Nations, Boy and Girl Scouts from the All Dulles Area Muslim Society Center, along with a full contingent of young men and women from Virginia Military Institute.
RVA Mag was on the scene all weekend covering inaugural events from start to finish, including Northam’s swearing-in, the inaugural ball, and the First Lady’s brunch. Below are some highlights from over the weekend:
The 73rd Governor of Virginia, Ralph Northam. Photo by BW
Larry Bland and the Volunteer Choir. Photo by LS
Former Governor and Current Senator, Tim Kaine. Photo by LS
To the Moon and Back with NASA. Photo by BW
Virginia’s First Nations Ground Blessing Ceremony. Photo by LS
The New Guard. Photo by AM
Cades from VMI, Marching in Parade. Photo by BW
Boy & Girl Scouts from All Dulles Area Muslim Society Center. Photo by BW
First Dance. Photo by BW
The First Lady and Her Brunch. Photo by BW
A Special Emphasis on Women. Photo by AM
At the Iconic Jefferson Hotel in Richmond. Photo by BW
A New Administration, A New Tune. Photo by BW
Photos by Landon Shroder (LS), Allison MacEwen (AM), and Branden Wilson (BW)
