Obama Ipsum

Consensus and compromise will not come easy. But for all those who scratched and clawed their way to get a piece of the American Dream, there were many who didn't make it - those who were ultimately defeated, in one way or another, by discrimination. I would not be running for President if I didn't believe with all my heart that this is what the vast majority of Americans want for this country. Because one of the things that we have to change in our politics is the idea that people cannot disagree without challenging each other's character and patriotism. The fourth issue that I will address is democracy.

These people are a part of me. I know there are differences on same-sex marriage, but surely we can agree that our gay and lesbian brothers and sisters deserve to visit the person they love in the hospital and to live lives free of discrimination.

A belief that we're all connected as one people. These challenges are not all of government's making. That's the change we need right now. Finally, the Arab States must recognize that the Arab Peace Initiative was an important beginning, but not the end of their responsibilities. All these things must be done in partnership.

At various stages in the campaign, some commentators have deemed me either "too black" or "not black enough." We saw racial tensions bubble to the surface during the week before the South Carolina primary. It's time for us to change America. Not with so much work to be done. But if we see this conflict only from one side or the other, then we will be blind to the truth: the only resolution is for the aspirations of both sides to be met through two states, where Israelis and Palestinians each live in peace and security. Americans are ready to join with citizens and governments; community organizations, religious leaders, and businesses in Muslim communities around the world to help our people pursue a better life. The Talmud tells us: "The whole of the Torah is for the purpose of promoting peace."

Let me be clear. And yet, to wish away the resentments of white Americans, to label them as misguided or even racist, without recognizing they are grounded in legitimate concerns - this too widens the racial divide, and blocks the path to understanding. I would not be running for President if I didn't believe with all my heart that this is what the vast majority of Americans want for this country. Now is the time to help families with paid sick days and better family leave, because nobody in America should have to choose between keeping their jobs and caring for a sick child or ailing parent. "And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back."

Thank you. And may God's peace be upon you.