Obama says citizens may need to ‘sacrifice’ to resist Trump policies

Former President Barack Obama delivered a powerful speech at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, on Thursday night, urging Americans to resist President Donald Trump’s policies. Obama emphasized the importance of sacrifice in order to uphold the values of democracy and social justice in the face of what he described as a threat to the post-World War II international order.
In his address, Obama criticized the Trump administration for its efforts to undermine the international order that was established by the United States after World War II. He called on students and citizens to take a more active role in resisting Trump’s policies, stating that it is no longer enough to simply voice support for progressive values without taking action.
“It has been easy during most of our lifetimes to say you are for something, but now we’re in one of those moments when it’s not enough just to say you’re for something. You may actually have to do something and possibly sacrifice a little bit,” Obama said.
The former president also highlighted the role of law firms and universities in standing up against the Trump administration, warning of the consequences of remaining silent in the face of threats to free speech and democracy.
Obama expressed deep concern over the actions of the federal government, particularly in its attempts to intimidate universities and suppress dissenting voices. He stressed the fragility of the international order that promotes cooperation over conflict, emphasizing the need to protect and uphold democratic values.
The speech, which was not recorded, underscored Obama’s commitment to defending the principles of democracy and social justice in the face of challenges posed by the current administration. His call to action resonated with the audience, inspiring them to take a stand and resist efforts to undermine the values that define American society.
As the former president continues to advocate for civic engagement and political activism, his words serve as a reminder of the importance of defending democratic institutions and standing up for what is right in the face of adversity. Obama’s message of unity and resilience serves as a beacon of hope in a time of uncertainty, urging Americans to come together and fight for a better future for all.