Obama praises youth contribution to historic journey to White House
Brittany Hutson/Contributing Writer
Issue date: 1/25/09 Section: Neighborhood
The buzz surrounding his arrival circulated the ballroom like hot gossip. The exact time of his appearance was unknown among the masses, but when The U.S. Air Force Band lined up on stage, it was a clue. The crowd of over 2,000 18-35 year olds shifted their attention and positioned towards the stage, anticipation nearly boiling over. Air Force One played on. Then-the announcement at 10:31 p.m.-"Ladies and gentleman, the President of the United States!"
The crowd exploded when President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama stepped on to the stage beaming, with Obama dressed in a custom black tuxedo and Michelle draped in an original gown by up-and-coming designer Jason Wu. The couple waved to the adoring supporters. A sea of digital cameras and camera phones went up instantly.
"I've been looking forward to this ball for quite some time because, when you look at the history of this campaign, what started out as an improbable journey when nobody gave us a chance was carried forward, was inspired by, was energized by, young people all across America," said Obama, as he was met with the crowd chanting in unison, "Yes We Can!"
"I can't tell you how many people have come up to us and said, 'I was kind of skeptical, but then my daughter-she wouldn't budge. She just told me I needed to vote for Obama,'" said the president as the crowd cheered. "'Suddenly, I saw my son and he was out volunteering and getting involved like never before.' And so a new generation inspired a previous generation and that's how change happens in America."
Obama continued, saying it is not just the election and his campaign that young people got involved in. Young people are involved with Teach for America, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and working with community organizations, he said.
"As this is broadcast all around the world we know that young people everywhere are in the process of imagining something different than what has come before us," said Obama.
"The future will be in your hands if you are able to sustain the kind of energy and focus you showed on this campaign."
The crowd exploded when President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama stepped on to the stage beaming, with Obama dressed in a custom black tuxedo and Michelle draped in an original gown by up-and-coming designer Jason Wu. The couple waved to the adoring supporters. A sea of digital cameras and camera phones went up instantly.
"I've been looking forward to this ball for quite some time because, when you look at the history of this campaign, what started out as an improbable journey when nobody gave us a chance was carried forward, was inspired by, was energized by, young people all across America," said Obama, as he was met with the crowd chanting in unison, "Yes We Can!"
"I can't tell you how many people have come up to us and said, 'I was kind of skeptical, but then my daughter-she wouldn't budge. She just told me I needed to vote for Obama,'" said the president as the crowd cheered. "'Suddenly, I saw my son and he was out volunteering and getting involved like never before.' And so a new generation inspired a previous generation and that's how change happens in America."
Obama continued, saying it is not just the election and his campaign that young people got involved in. Young people are involved with Teach for America, AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and working with community organizations, he said.
"As this is broadcast all around the world we know that young people everywhere are in the process of imagining something different than what has come before us," said Obama.
"The future will be in your hands if you are able to sustain the kind of energy and focus you showed on this campaign."
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