Politics

Farewell To Obama

AFP Photo/Ronny Hartmann

It’s a somber first month of the year in America, as we watch one of the greatest presidents of all time leave the White House. Barack Obama may not be in office anymore, but he will always remain president in our hearts. Not only can he be inspirational to everyone around the country, but he has inspired change throughout the world.

Lawyer, U.S. Senator, and now U.S. President, Barack Obama has been through the ranks in this country. He started out as a graduate of Columbia University, and then went on to Harvard Law school. While attending Columbia University, Obama was an advocate for human rights, and did a lot of public reform work in Chicago, Illinois. Later, after graduating from Harvard Law School magna cum laude in 1991, Obama used his extensive work in the city of Chicago to help with his campaign for a seat in Illinois State Senate. When he served his years as a State Senator, Obama worked with both Democrats and Republicans helping to further expand healthcare services and early childhood education programs for the poor. He also created a tax credit system for the lower class in Chicago, which gave people an incentive to work. Later on in his career, Obama strengthened his efforts to further advance his disposition. He unsuccessfully ran for a seat in the House of Representatives, and later, after running for a seat in Senate, became one of few African-Americans elected to the U.S. Senate in November 2004. Obama was the first Black candidate to win as the Democratic Party nominee in 2008, influencing the perspectives of all Americans in some way. While some Americans are happy to see him be replaced by presidential elect Donald Trump, most are sad to see such a great man leave office.

    Personally, Obama has inspired me to want to be a powerful leader who can make a difference in this country. He made me realize that anything is possible if one puts their mind to it. I believe Obama opened people's’ eyes, especially the youth, to accept whether someone is part of a minority group, man or woman, young or old, anyone can make a difference; especially in America, where opportunity and hope are endless. He served as an example that anyone can be the change they wish to see in the world.