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I'm talking about something more substantial. But as Americans, we also know that this is a nation of laws, and we cannot have those laws broken when more than 2,000 people cross our borders illegally every day. 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. And we will do so in partnership with Muslim communities which are also threatened.
Like the anger within the black community, these resentments aren't always expressed in polite company. But what the people heard instead - people of every creed and color, from every walk of life - is that in America, our destiny is inextricably linked. Suppressing ideas never succeeds in making them go away. And we will welcome all elected, peaceful governments - provided they govern with respect for all their people. In ancient times and in our times, Muslim communities have been at the forefront of innovation and education.
More work to do for the workers I met in Galesburg, Ill., who are losing their union jobs at the Maytag plant that's moving to Mexico, and now are having to compete with their own children for jobs that pay seven bucks an hour. It is on your lips and in your heart. But the remarks that have caused this recent firestorm weren't simply controversial. Understanding this reality requires a reminder of how we arrived at this point. They work hard and give back and keep going without complaint. The question, now, is not what Iran is against, but rather what future it wants to build.
Likewise, it is important for Western countries to avoid impeding Muslim citizens from practicing religion as they see fit - for instance, by dictating what clothes a Muslim woman should wear. That is why we are forging service projects in America that bring together Christians, Muslims, and Jews.
They imagined me going to the best schools in the land, even though they weren't rich, because in a generous America you don't have to be rich to achieve your potential. And in time, I came to see faith as more than just a comfort to the weary or a hedge against death, but rather as an active, palpable agent in the world and in my own life.
Thank you.