Obama thanks supporters

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U.S. President Barack Obama thanked his supporters at an inaugural reception at the National Building Museum in Washington on Sunday (January 20).

The President was joined on stage by First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden.

Obama, who kept his remarks brief said the inauguration on Monday (January 21) was a very important celebration.

"Make sure you know what we are celebrating is not the election or swearing-in of a President; what we are doing is celebrating each other and celebrating this incredible nation that we call home. And after we celebrate, let's make sure to work as hard as we can to pass on an America that is worthy not only of our past but also of our future," Obama said.

Earlier, the President took the official oath for his second term at the White House in a small, private ceremony that set a more subdued tone compared to the historic start of his presidency four years ago.

Obama, 51, will be sworn in publicly on Monday outside the West Front of the Capitol overlooking the National Mall in front of as many as 800,000 people, a much bigger ceremony replete with a major address and a parade.