Barack Obama Selma 50th anniversary speech facts for kids
On March 7, 2015, President of the United States Barack Obama gave an important speech at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. He was there to celebrate 50 years since the historic Selma to Montgomery marches. His speech focused on how people of different races get along in the United States. About 40,000 people came to listen. This included former President George W. Bush, former First Lady Laura Bush, and many civil rights heroes. Among them were Amelia Boynton Robinson, John Lewis, Diane Nash, and Bernard Lafayette. These were some of the brave "foot soldiers" who marched in 1965.
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What the Speech Was About
President Obama's speech was about the importance of the Selma to Montgomery marches. He said that Selma is a special place where America's future was shaped. He explained that these marches led to the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This law helped make sure all citizens could vote, no matter their race. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed this important law. He echoed the marchers' cry: "We shall overcome!"
Being Truly American
Obama talked about how the marchers were questioned and even threatened. People doubted their love for America. But he argued that fighting for fairness and equality is one of the most American things you can do. He said Selma was not just a small event. It showed the true spirit of America, found in its founding documents. He quoted from the Preamble to the United States Constitution:
We the People...in order to form a more perfect union.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.
He said that the desire for fairness led young people to march across the bridge.
Selma's Impact Around the World
Obama also explained how the events in Selma inspired people far away. He said that young people in other countries saw what happened in Selma. They were inspired to fight for their own freedom. For example, people in places like South Africa fought against unfair laws. They saw what brave Americans like John Lewis had done.
Changes We See Today
The President pointed out that the actions of these activists changed America. Today, African Americans work in many important jobs. They are leaders in businesses, judges, and elected officials. They serve in government from small towns to the Oval Office itself. He said that the doors of opportunity opened for everyone, not just for Black Americans.
Looking at Today's Challenges
Obama then talked about current issues, like events in Ferguson. He said that problems still exist, but also that much has improved. He mentioned that our country's history with race still affects us. He said that with effort, we can make sure our justice system is fair for everyone. He spoke about the need for trust between police and citizens. He reminded everyone that people want the same protection under the law that the marchers fought for 50 years ago. He also talked about problems like unfair punishments. These issues can stop young people from reaching their full potential.
The Voting Rights Act Today
Obama discussed how the Voting Rights Act was not as strong as it used to be. He asked members of Congress to work together to make the law strong again. He reminded everyone that both Republican and Democratic presidents had supported the Act in the past. He also wondered why so many people don't vote today. He said it's a right that many people fought hard to get.
The Power of "We"
He spoke about how America is always changing and improving. He compared the Civil Rights Movement to other fights for fairness. He said that America is a project for everyone. He highlighted the word "We" as the most powerful word in our democracy. "We The People." "We Shall Overcome." "Yes We Can."
Obama honored the activists who made changes possible. He said their hard work made things easier for future generations. He quoted from the Book of Isaiah:
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on [the] wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint.
He ended his speech by saying:
We honor those who walked so we could run. We must run so our children soar. And we will not grow weary. For we believe in the power of an awesome God, and we believe in this country's sacred promise.
