OBAMA SPEECH IN FULL: A MORE PERFECT UNION

This speech is really amazing and spoke to the concerns I have about the America I know. Racism in this country has always been something that struck me as both confusing and frustrating. I come from a line of Native Americans and Irishmen, both of whom at some point in history were pretty low on the totem pole for racial respect. This country has a history of behaving badly to the displaced, immigrants, and those deemed "less".

I feel like we all need to be more aware and not give in to the stereotypes that are handed down to us through generations. I can’t believe everything my father did, and he shouldn’t believe everything his father did. It’s up to us to expand on the knowledge that is passed down to us. There are lessons to be learned from every generation, but we can't fall back on the idea of the "good Ol' days". There has always been civil unrest and inequality, and the only way to change it is to look forward, move forward, and never rest until everyone has the same opportunities.

My parents both grew up poor, and have come to success in their lives based on a philosophy of self-help. That’s not to say they didn't make it without some help from government programs instituted to help change their futures (grants for college etc.) . I benefited from that as well… The military pulled me out of a small town, and taught me a trade that I now use to make a successful living. The concept of self-help, with a little aide from the government is a path that many Americans could and should benefit from, but it has to start with education. Education from parents, teachers, and guardians for the youth of America that nobody is going to hand a successful life to them, but if they reach out, and make an effort, work hard and persevere, they can be whatever they want to be and do whatever they want to do.

~erin


OBAMA SPEECH IN FULL: A MORE PERFECT UNION
Tuesday, March 18th, 2008/ 10:17:53 ET
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Click this link to read the speech:
Obama.htm