Gaithersburg Activist, 8, Appears On Biden's Inauguration Special

GAITHERSBURG, MD — An 8-year-old activist from Gaithersburg made a cameo on Joe Biden's "Celebrating America" inauguration celebration Wednesday night.

Cavanaugh Bell — who started his own food pantry and made care packages for seniors — was among a handful of everyday Americans who were highlighted in the 90-minute primetime special.

"I spread positivity to inspire others to change the world. Because the pandemic left so many in need, I decided to make care packs to help elderly people in my community. And now, I'm able to gather supplies to give to families across the country," he said.

Bell then introduced Justin Timberlake and Ant Clemons who sang "Better Days" from Memphis, Tennessee.

"Celebrating America" was hosted by Tom Hanks and aired on several streaming platforms and major TV networks. It featured rousing performances by A-list artists — including Katy Perry and Bon Jovi — and several heartfelt tributes to nurses, teachers, and other everyday Americans.

Biden also made a brief appearance during his post-inauguration celebration.

Speaking at the Lincoln Memorial — moments before Bell appeared on TV — Biden issued a call for unity amid multiple national crises.

"This is a great nation. We're a good people. And overcoming the challenges in front of us requires the most elusive of all things in a democracy: unity. It requires us to come together in common love that defines us as Americans — opportunity, liberty, dignity, and respect — and unite against common foes — hate, violence, disease, and hopelessness," he said.

Bell's mom, Llacey Simmons, told Patch that she was shocked to see her son speak after Biden.

"We knew he was going to be included in the celebration but we had no idea he would follow the President," she said. "I'm not a big crier, but I cried last night. I'm so incredibly proud of Cavanaugh for being the light that we need right now."

Click here to see Cavanaugh Bell and the rest of the primetime inauguration special. The video is also posted below.

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