Barack Obama delivered a speech on March 18th, 2008, at the Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In this speech, he explored the concept of a more perfect union and how it relates to America’s history of inequality and racism. He began by discussing the founding of America and how the Constitution, despite its flaws, aimed for equality under the law. However, this promise was not fulfilled for all citizens, particularly African Americans who were subjected to the injustice of slavery.
Obama then spoke about the importance of Americans working together to narrow the gap between the ideals of the Constitution and the reality of their time. He stated that Americans have always fought for justice and equality, often at great risk, through protests, civil disobedience, and even wars. He emphasized that he believed in the decency and generosity of the American people and that his own story, as the son of a black Kenyan father and white American mother, has taught him the importance of unity.
The speech then turned to the subject of race and how it has been a divisive issue in the campaign. Obama acknowledged that race was an issue in the campaign and that some have viewed his candidacy as an exercise in affirmative action. He also addressed the controversy surrounding his former pastor Reverend Jeremiah Wright, whose incendiary comments had caused a firestorm in the media. Obama condemned Wright’s comments, describing them as a distorted view that saw white racism as endemic and elevated what was wrong with America above all that was right.
Obama stated that he had always disagreed with many of Wright’s political views, just as he was sure many in the audience had disagreed with their pastors, priests, or rabbis. He recognized that his condemnation of Wright’s comments might not be enough for some but explained that he had associated himself with Wright not only because he was a man who helped introduce him to his Christian faith but also because Wright had served his country as a U.S. Marine and had worked to help the community through his church.
The speech concluded with Obama stating that he believed in the possibility of a more perfect union but that it would require Americans to work together to overcome their differences and reach common goals. He emphasized the importance of unity and how America’s diversity should be celebrated rather than used to divide the country. In conclusion, he called on Americans to come together to solve the monumental problems facing the country, including wars, terrorist threats, economic issues, healthcare, and climate change.