At the opening of the African American Museum of History and Culture in DC [1] in August, the Bushes and the Obamas reminded everyone that unity is more important than differing opinions. One particular photo of Michelle Obama [2] hugging George W. Bush went viral, but obviously the ceremony was not the first time both families have overcome their political positions to celebrate what makes this nation so great.
Whether it be at Barack Obama's inauguration or at the opening of George W. Bush's presidential library, the former president and current president have appeared together often, smiling the entire time. Neither family looks posed or uncomfortable during these events, either; they genuinely seem happy to see each other. Indeed, Obama recently told CBS News's Face the Nation [3] that the most important advice he received from Bush was that "the American people need their president to succeed, regardless of political party." The evident sincerity between the Bushes and the Obamas serves as a necessary reminder for one of our nation's most memorable mottos: united we stand, divided we fall.
At a time where it seems political affiliation defines character and the rift between people seems to be growing daily [4], let these 30 photos of Bush and Obama inspire you to embrace unity.
Laughing with one another at Obama's inauguration in 2009
Making friends with Sasha Obama at the inauguration
Practicing their handshake in 2013
Laughing with former first lady Barbara Bush at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in 2013
Sitting back and chatting at the Oval Office in 2008
Mingling with President Bill Clinton at the opening ceremony for the George W. Bush Presidential Center in 2013
Honoring those who died on Sept. 11 on its 10th anniversary memorial
Encouraging healing at the slain Dallas police officers' memorial service in 2016
Visiting the 9/11 memorial together in 2011
Walking through the White House's colonnade in 2008
Transitioning power despite the cold during Obama's inauguration in 2009
Greeting the press before Obama's inauguration
Embracing the cold at the inauguration
Together at the inauguration
Sitting together at Obama's inauguration
Honoring the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery civil rights march in 2015
Joining hands in prayer at the Selma march's anniversary in 2015
Smiling at the unveiling of the Bushes' presidential portraits in 2012
Practicing their handshake in 2016
Warmly greeting George H. W. Bush at a Fort Hood memorial service in 2014
Visiting Tanzania in 2013 to commemorate the victims of a 1988 US Embassy bombing
Cleaning up nicely at the Bushes' portrait ceremony in 2012
Observing the 9/11 memorial together in 2011
Traveling to South Africa together in 2013
Struggling to keep a straight face with Barbara Bush at the Bush Center dedication in 2013
Celebrating the opening of the George W. Bush Presidential Library together in 2013
Meeting at the White House for the first time after Obama won the election in 2008
Working together during Bush's presidency in 2006
Watching Stevie Wonder perform at the National African American History and Culture Museum dedication in DC in 2016
Sharing embraces at the National Museum of African American History and Culture's dedication in 2016
