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John Edwards calls on us to hope. And yet, it has only been in the last couple of weeks that the discussion of race in this campaign has taken a particularly divisive turn. And although she can no longer travel, I know that she's watching tonight, and that tonight is her night as well. That's not the judgment we need. And I consider it part of my responsibility as President of the United States to fight against negative stereotypes of Islam wherever they appear. I have unequivocally prohibited the use of torture by the United States, and I have ordered the prison at Guantanamo Bay closed by early next year.
Two hundred and twenty one years ago, in a hall that still stands across the street, a group of men gathered and, with these simple words, launched America's improbable experiment in democracy. This country of ours has more wealth than any nation, but that's not what makes us rich.
The hope of immigrants setting out for distant shores. Our conscience can't rest so long as 37 million Americans are poor and forgotten by their leaders in Washington and by the media elites. And in exchange, I'll ask for higher standards and more accountability. You understand that in this election, the greatest risk we can take is to try the same old politics with the same old players and expect a different result. And throughout history, Islam has demonstrated through words and deeds the possibilities of religious tolerance and racial equality. Indeed, it suggests the opposite: we must face these tensions squarely.
Now, as children of God, we believe in the worth and dignity of every human being; it doesn't matter where that person came from or what documents they have. But they have helped shape the political landscape for at least a generation. Over seven years ago, the United States pursued al Qaeda and the Taliban with broad international support. That is the spirit we need today. Countries like Japan and South Korea grew their economies while maintaining distinct cultures.
If John McCain wants to have a debate about who has the temperament, and judgment, to serve as the next Commander-in-Chief, that's a debate I'm ready to have. Freedom of religion is central to the ability of peoples to live together.
Thank you. And may God's peace be upon you.