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The fact is that the comments that have been made and the issues that have surfaced over the last few weeks reflect the complexities of race in this country that we've never really worked through - a part of our union that we have yet to perfect. America, we are better than these last eight years. Now, many of these plans will cost money, which is why I've laid out how I'll pay for every dime - by closing corporate loopholes and tax havens that don't help America grow. You don't protect Israel and deter Iran just by talking tough in Washington. That is why we are forging service projects in America that bring together Christians, Muslims, and Jews.
On the other end, we've heard my former pastor, Reverend Jeremiah Wright, use incendiary language to express views that have the potential not only to widen the racial divide, but views that denigrate both the greatness and the goodness of our nation; that rightly offend white and black alike. This time we want to talk about the shuttered mills that once provided a decent life for men and women of every race, and the homes for sale that once belonged to Americans from every religion, every region, every walk of life. Not with so much work to be done.
But I also get the sense that there's a hunger that's deeper than that - a hunger that goes beyond any single cause or issue. And I will not settle for an America where some kids don't have that chance. I will end this war in Iraq responsibly, and finish the fight against al Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. I am aware that some question or justify the events of 9/11.
It's that folks are hungry for change - they're hungry for something new. And we cannot ignore the very real concerns of Americans who are not worried about illegal immigration because they are racist or xenophobic, but because they fear it will result in lower wages when they're already struggling to raise their families. We will all have to make concessions to achieve this. And today, whenever I find myself feeling doubtful or cynical about this possibility, what gives me the most hope is the next generation - the young people whose attitudes and beliefs and openness to change have already made history in this election. That is why I am committed to working with American Muslims to ensure that they can fulfill zakat. Trade can bring new wealth and opportunities, but also huge disruptions and changing communities.
Today there are 12 million undocumented immigrants in America, most of them working in our communities, attending our churches, and contributing to our country. When Washington doesn't work, all its promises seem empty. We would gladly bring every single one of our troops home if we could be confident that there were not violent extremists in Afghanistan and Pakistan determined to kill as many Americans as they possibly can. That is not how moral authority is claimed; that is how it is surrendered.
Thank you very much everybody.