November 17, 2023

Obama’s Speech at Naturalization Ceremony 2015

2023-11-17

The truth is, being an American is hard. Being part of a democratic government is hard. Being a citizen is hard. It is a challenge. It’s supposed to be. There’s no respite from our ideals. All of us are called to live up to our expectations for ourselves — not just when it’s convenient, but when it’s inconvenient. When it’s tough. When we’re afraid. The tension throughout our history between welcoming or rejecting the stranger, it’s about more than just immigration.

John F. Kennedy’s Speech at University of Washington

2023-11-17

While we shall negotiate freely, we shall not negotiate freedom. For to save mankind’s future freedom, we must face up to any risk that is necessary. We will always seek peace– but we will never surrender. We are Americans, determined to defend the frontiers of freedom, by an honorable peace if peace is possible, but by arms if arms are used against us.