In this election, we offer that choice. That anger is not always productive; indeed, all too often it distracts attention from solving real problems; it keeps us from squarely facing our own complicity in our condition, and prevents the African-American community from forging the alliances it needs to bring about real change. The Republican nominee, John McCain, has worn the uniform of our country with bravery and distinction, and for that we owe him our gratitude and respect. That won’t keep America safe. Those are not just American ideas, they are human rights, and that is why we will support them everywhere.
Imagine Lincoln’s Second Inaugural without its reference to “the judgments of the Lord.” Or King’s “I Have a Dream” speech without its reference to “all of God’s children.” Or President Kennedy’s Inaugural without the words, “here on Earth, God’s work must truly be our own.” At each of these junctures, by summoning a higher truth and embracing a universal faith, our leaders inspired ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things. A lack of economic opportunity among black men, and the shame and frustration that came from not being able to provide for one’s family, contributed to the erosion of black families – a problem that welfare policies for many years may have worsened. Even for those blacks who did make it, questions of race, and racism, continue to define their worldview in fundamental ways. No health care? The market will fix it. You’re on your own. I am aware that some question or justify the events of 9/11.
The Republican nominee, John McCain, has worn the uniform of our country with bravery and distinction, and for that we owe him our gratitude and respect. But I will also go through the federal budget, line by line, eliminating programs that no longer work and making the ones we do need work better and cost less – because we cannot meet twenty-first century challenges with a twentieth century bureaucracy. You have shown what history teaches us – that at defining moments like this one, the change we need doesn’t come from Washington.
“If you’re organizing churches,” they said, “it might be helpful if you went to church once in a while.” And I thought, “Well, I guess that makes sense.” He strengthened my faith, officiated my wedding, and baptized my children. “I’m here because of Ashley.” By itself, that single moment of recognition between that young white girl and that old black man is not enough. I am grateful for your hospitality, and the hospitality of the people of Egypt. But I do have an unyielding belief that all people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed; confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice; government that is transparent and doesn’t steal from the people; the freedom to live as you choose.
I am a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. Suppressing ideas never succeeds in making them go away.
