President Biden speaks during primetime 'Celebrating America' program hosted by Tom Hanks

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris delivered remarks on Wednesday night from the Lincoln Memorial during a primetime program hosted by actor Tom Hanks.

"There are moments in our history when more is asked of us as Americans," the newly inaugurated president said. "We are in one of those moments now: The pandemic, economic crisis, racial injustice, the climate crisis and threats to our very democracy."

"Will we meet the moment like our forbears have? I believe we must and I believe we will," Biden said on the "Celebrating America" program, which aired, mostly live, on many major broadcast and cable news networks. 

The 90-minute program featured appearances by Bruce Springsteen, Justin Timberlake, Lin-Manuel Miranda, John Legend, Bon Jovi and Katy Perry among others.

Hanks spoke from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.  

"In the last few weeks, in the last few years we've witnessed deep divisions and a troubling rancor in our land," Hanks said. "But tonight we ponder the United States of America: The practice of our democracy, the foundations of our republic, the integrity of our Constitution, the hope and dreams we all share for a more perfect union."