Barack Obama pays tribute to Manchester cotton workers and cites them as an inspiration
A story of solidarity
Obama ended the 90-minute event by recalling Manchester cotton workers who stood with enslaved African Americans during the American civil war. In 1862, their livelihoods depended on cotton, while a Union blockade prevented cotton from leaving the South.
He said the workers wrote to Abraham Lincoln, who praised their action as an expression of humility, charity and grace. Obama called their story “wonderful” and asked, “if they could do it, why can’t we?” He said the workers had no guarantee of benefiting from their decision, but believed that sharing such stories could help people through difficult times and give future generations examples to follow.
Identity and public life
Asked how his identity shaped his politics and leadership, Obama said the effects were specific to the United States as well as more universal. He described becoming a symbol of a journey the country had taken.
Obama said his presidency did not mean the country had reached a post-racial state, which he said was never possible. But, at least for a moment, the idea that “we the people” meant everyone, rather than only some, appeared to have been validated.
Democracy needs renewal
Obama described democracy as a journey that requires continual replenishment to prevent a return to old ways. He pointed to economic, social and technological disruptions as challenges facing societies.
He said people often forget how recently democracy took hold and how fragile it is. For much of human history, he said, societies were organized around caste, hierarchy, violence and force.
The foundation’s work
Obama also discussed the Obama Presidential Center, a museum, library and education project in Chicago. He said the center was intended to remind people of what was possible.
His foundation works on economic inequality, the climate crisis, education and health. Its programmes include work with women and girls, emerging global leaders, and journalists in oppressive regimes.
Key points
- Obama held up Manchester cotton workers’ support for enslaved African Americans as an example for today.
- He said sharing stories of solidarity could help people and inspire future generations.
- Obama described democracy as fragile and dependent on continual renewal.
- The Obama Presidential Center in Chicago is a museum, library and education project.