Throughout all the praises Obama supporters have been giving to our current commander in chief since a new president was elected, President Barack Obama decided that tonight was his time to say thanks.
Obama, known as an excellent speaker who can captivate any crowd he stands in front of, actually gave the best speech of his life (as if he could top his many other amazing speeches). He displayed the epitome of class, respect, and inspiration in front of a crowd of thousands who stood in the cold just to get a ticket to see him. He was, in a word, presidential. And that’s all we could really ask for in his last speech as POTUS.
Here are the best moments from Obama’s Farewell Speech.
“America is a better, stronger place than it was when we started.”
It’s true. And we all know that Obama has never been afraid to share his many accolades with the world. Bin Laden is dead. More people have insurance than ever. There’s been an incredible job increase. America dropped a recession into Obama’s lap and his administration turned it into the economic success that we have today.
No disrespect.
He didn’t tolerate any booing when he mentioned President-Elect Donald Trump. Like Michelle Obama said multiple times, “When they go low, we go high.” Obama exemplifies that motto in his every action. He exudes respect and demands it of his fellow Americans as well. And no matter who is in the oval office for as long as this democracy exists, he will always be supportive of the ideals that this country was founded on. And that includes supporting the President-Elect just as George W. Bush supported him.
“Race remains a potent and often divisive force in our society.”
Not just a divisive force, but a threat to our democracy. He acknowledged that we are not where we need to be and that there is still more work to do. Most of all, a black president does not equal a “post-racial” America. We cannot be unwilling to invest in the people that look different than we do. And no law by itself is going to change our hearts for us. Obama made it clear that he doesn’t stand for ridiculous terms like “reverse racism” or discrimination against those who protest. He said that regardless of the station we occupy, “we have to try harder.” Surrounding ourselves with people who are just like us, whether in social media or in real life, just won’t cut it anymore.
“I reject discrimination against Muslim Americans, who are just as patriotic as we are.”
Oh yes. The line that brought tears to many audience members’ eyes. We won’t stand for Islamophobia or discrimination of Muslim Americans; we will not assign terrorism a color.
SHOW UP.
Obama stressed that the Constitution does not have any power on its own; that we, the people, give it power. He asks that we show up. If we disagree with something, we lace up our boots and do something about it. And there’s nothing more American than that.
Thank you notes.
Seeing him point at the greatest first lady of all time and calling her Michelle LaVaughn Robinson was one of the most touching moments — aside from watching Malia wipe tears from her eyes. They took on roles they did not ask for, and they made being under constant public scrutiny look easy. And we can’t forget the coolest political friendship — Barack and Joe. Obama regarded the Bidens as extended family.
But, where was Sasha? I guess we will find out later.
Yes we can.
Yes we did, and yes we can. How amazing was it to hear him call us the best supporters and organizers anyone could ever hope for, when he is the best president we could ever hope for.
While this next term is throwing us all for a loop, it is comforting to know that our 44th POTUS will not stop making this country better. It’s even better to know that we will be doing the same alongside him, as citizens alike.
To watch or read the full speech, click here.
