Guest commentary by Zheng Yiran

The drama of the presidential election is still not over, with many superstars and celebrities turning down invitations to Trump’s inauguration ceremony. The smart announcement that Trump wants to be surrounded with “soft sensuality” and people instead of A-listers could resolve embarrassment, as well as send a message that the new president aims to unite the nation. The performers that are invited and will finally show up at the ceremony will represent the participation of multiple cultures and groups. 

Referred to as “America’s Choir”, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir has been invited to perform for the presidential inauguration for a seventh time. Its president Ron Jarrett says they are honored to serve the country and sing the music of America. Their performance of patriotic song “America the Beautiful” arose people’s national pride as always. Jarrett also emphasizes the fact that they “have a long tradition of performing at inaugurals of US presidents of both parties.” The choir’s reputation all over the world proves that music is a universal language transcending boundaries of parties, religions, countries, cultures and generations. In this way, those volunteer members could bring peace, conciliation and healing in a world full of anger. 

16-year-old Jackie Evancho is probably the youngest solo artist to ever take the inaugural stage. She became popular on America’s Got Talent when she was only 10 years old. For Americans, she was a little girl representing pure beauty and hope. This impression has been strengthened by her singing at the National Christmas Tree Lighting and National Prayer Breakfast ceremonies. Her voice when singing the national anthem is incredible clear and warm. The director of communications of the Presidential Inaugural Committee Boris Epshteyn said, “Jackie represents the best and the brightest of America.” Evancho is not even old enough to vote, but this teen singer may influence younger generations, and will bring hope for the future. 

In addition, Evancho has a transgender sibling. Thinking of the Trump boycott by the LGBT community, the attendance of Evancho and the support from her transgender sister mean a lot. Faced with a fan backlash, unlike other stars who backed down such as Jennifer Holliday, Jackie Evancho said she will pay more attention to a lot of love that she get and will ignore the hate. This is just what Americans need right now. 

Interestingly, while “Women's March on Washington” is on the way, the participation of female performers, from 16-year-old Evancho to 57-year-old Marie Osmond, and the Rockettes, one of the most popular female dance groups, together gives a gesture of reconciliation. When Time magazine dubs Trump “President of the Divided states of America”, Trump must unite America first and make it great again. 

(Zheng Yiran, assistant professor, Institute for Cultural Studies, Capital Normal University. The article reflects the author's opinion, not necessarily the view of CGTN.)