Full speech: Michelle Obama speaks at 2024 DNC | USA TODAY

Summary

In this powerful speech, the speaker reflects on the resurgence of hope in America, inspired by the potential of Kamala Harris and Tim Walls as leaders. They share personal grief and a sense of duty to honor their mother's memory and the sacrifices of previous generations. The speaker emphasizes the importance of values like hard work, humility, and community service, and calls for unity against fear, division, and hate. Urging action, not complaints, they highlight the need for a collective effort to elect leaders who embody these values and move the country forward.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The speech emphasizes the resurgence of hope and the collective anticipation for a brighter future in the country.
• 🔥 A call to overcome the demons of fear, division, and hate that have affected the nation, and to pursue the unfinished promise of America.
• 🕊️ The speaker shares personal grief and the influence of her mother's values, emphasizing the importance of hard work, humility, and decency.
• 🌱 The belief in the inherent value of all people and the opportunity for anyone to succeed is a central theme, reflecting the speaker's mother's life and work.
• 👥 The speech highlights the importance of community and the 'unseen labor' that strengthens the nation, such as volunteering and caring for others.
• 🌈 Kamala Harris is presented as a figure who embodies the American dream, with a life built on foundational values and a commitment to public service.
• 🏆 The speech argues that Kamala Harris is one of the most qualified and dignified candidates for the presidency, ready to lead with passion and inclusion.
• 🚫 A warning against the distortion of Kamala Harris's truth and a critique of the current leadership's condescending and divisive tactics.
• 💪 The call to action for the audience to not just complain but to actively participate in the political process and support the candidates.
• 🗳️ The importance of voting in large numbers to overcome suppression efforts and to ensure that every vote counts in the upcoming election.
• 👫 A reminder of the collective responsibility to uphold the values of decency, humanity, and democracy, and to pay forward the sacrifices of previous generations.

Q & A

What is the central theme of the speech?

The central theme of the speech is the resurgence of hope and the importance of unity and hard work in overcoming division and fear to achieve a brighter future for the nation.

How does the speaker describe the current state of the country?

The speaker describes the country as being on the cusp of a brighter day, with a sense of hope and anticipation that is spreading across the nation.

What personal experience does the speaker share to connect with the audience?

The speaker shares the experience of mourning the loss of her mother, who instilled in her the values of hard work, humility, and the power of one's voice.

What values did the speaker's mother live by and pass on to her?

The speaker's mother lived by values of hope, the belief in the value of all people, and the importance of community service and sacrifice for the greater good.

How does the speaker describe Kamala Harris's background and qualifications?

The speaker describes Kamala Harris as coming from a middle-class background, having worked her way up to become Vice President, and being one of the most qualified and dignified people to seek the presidency.

What is the speaker's view on the importance of voting and political participation?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of voting and political participation as a means to enact change, overcome division, and uphold the values that make America great.

What message does the speaker convey about the upcoming election?

The speaker conveys that the upcoming election is crucial and will be close, urging everyone to vote in large numbers to ensure a victory for the values and future they envision.

How does the speaker address the potential challenges and criticisms Kamala Harris might face?

The speaker acknowledges that Kamala Harris will face distortions of her truth and criticisms but calls for unity and active support to counter these challenges.

What does the speaker suggest as the antidote to the darkness and division in the country?

The speaker suggests that the antidote to darkness and division is the collective action of the people, embodying the values of decency, respect, and empathy.

What call to action does the speaker make at the end of the speech?

The speaker calls for action, urging everyone to register to vote, have a voting plan, and actively support the candidates to ensure a better future for the country.

Who does the speaker introduce at the end of the speech?

The speaker introduces Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States and her husband, as someone who has dedicated his life to strengthening democracy.

Outlines

00:00

🌟 The Resurgence of Hope

The speaker expresses a renewed sense of hope and unity, suggesting that the nation is on the brink of overcoming fear, division, and hate. They share a personal story of mourning the loss of hope and their own mother, who embodied values of hard work, humility, and decency. The speaker emphasizes the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by previous generations to secure a better future and calls upon the audience to uphold these values and not squander the opportunities presented to them.

05:01

🌱 Kamala Harris: A Story of Service and Dedication

This paragraph highlights the background and values instilled by Kamala Harris's mother, who moved from India to the U.S. at 19. The speaker describes Kamala's journey from her education at an HBCU to her career in public service, emphasizing her commitment to justice and lifting others up. The speaker argues that Kamala's life and achievements make her one of the most qualified and dignified candidates for the presidency, embodying the American dream and the values of hard work, education, and opportunity for all.

10:02

🛡️ Facing Opposition and Upholding Integrity

The speaker addresses the challenges that Kamala Harris and Tim Walls will face, including distortion of truth and attempts to spread fear and division. They criticize the tactics of their opponents, such as Donald Trump, who they accuse of promoting misogyny and racism. The speaker calls for unity and a rejection of small-mindedness, urging the audience to support Kamala and Tim in their pursuit of a more inclusive and hopeful America.

15:03

🔥 The Call to Action: Overcoming Despair with Hope

The speaker calls for collective action in the face of adversity, reminding the audience not to be complacent despite the current sense of hope and progress. They acknowledge the uphill battle ahead and the potential for setbacks, urging the audience to remain vigilant and proactive. The speaker emphasizes the importance of voting and getting involved in the political process, stressing that every vote counts and that the future of the nation is in the hands of its citizens.

20:07

🗳️ The Power of the Vote: Electing Change

In this final paragraph, the speaker makes a direct appeal to the audience to vote and to encourage others to do the same. They stress the importance of every vote and the potential impact of a few votes in close elections. The speaker calls for a massive turnout to overcome any attempts at voter suppression and to ensure that the values of decency, respect, and empathy are upheld in the democratic process. They conclude by reiterating the power of the people to shape the nation's future and the responsibility to honor the sacrifices of past generations.

👋 Introducing the 44th President: Barack Obama

The speaker concludes their address by introducing Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, and their spouse. They highlight his dedication to democracy and the well-being of the country, expressing pride in his commitment to public service and the values that guide his leadership.

Keywords

💡Hope

Hope is a central theme in the video, representing the aspiration for a better future and the belief that positive change is possible. It is defined as the expectation and desire for a particular thing to happen. In the script, hope is described as 'contagious power' and 'anticipation,' which is re-emerging after being 'buried too deep for far too long.' The speaker encourages the audience to embrace hope as a driving force for overcoming fear, division, and hate.

💡Division

Division refers to the state of being separated or split into different parts, often used to describe social or political fragmentation. In the context of the video, it is one of the 'demons' that the speaker wishes to vanquish, suggesting a call for unity and the overcoming of societal rifts. The script mentions 'fear, division, and hate' as forces that have consumed the nation, indicating a need for collective effort to heal these divisions.

💡Service

Service in this context is the act of doing work for the benefit of others, often associated with selflessness and dedication. The video emphasizes service as a life principle, highlighting the example of Kamala Harris's mother who 'lived a life of service' and encouraged her daughter to 'do something' rather than complain. The script uses service to illustrate the commitment to public good and the importance of active participation in society.

💡Opportunity

Opportunity is the chance or possibility of doing something or having something done. In the script, it is linked to the idea that all individuals should have equal access to the means to succeed, regardless of their background. The speaker argues against the notion that 'no one has a monopoly on what it means to be an American,' suggesting that opportunity should be inclusive and not exclusive.

💡Decency

Decency is the quality of being proper or suitable in a given context, often associated with moral integrity and respectability. The video script uses the term to describe a societal value that should be upheld, as part of the 'unfinished promise of this great nation.' It is presented as a foundational value that needs to be preserved and promoted in the pursuit of a better society.

💡Dignity

Dignity refers to the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect. The script calls for the recognition of dignity in all individuals, as part of the broader call for respect and empathy. It is used to emphasize the inherent worth of every person and the need for society to honor this in its interactions and policies.

💡Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. The video script includes empathy as one of the core values that should be at the heart of the nation's democratic foundation. It is presented as a necessary quality for building a society that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive of all its members.

💡Leadership

Leadership is the action of leading a group of people or an organization. In the script, leadership is discussed in the context of the upcoming election, emphasizing the qualities needed in leaders, such as 'passion, inclusion, and grace.' The speaker also contrasts this with 'backward leadership' that is petty and unpresidential, highlighting the importance of electing leaders who embody positive values.

💡Accountability

Accountability is the state of being responsible for one's actions. The script mentions Kamala Harris's work to 'hold law breakers accountable,' which illustrates the concept of ensuring that individuals are answerable for their actions, especially in the context of upholding the rule of law.

💡Participation

Participation is the act of taking part in something. The video script calls for active participation from the audience, urging them not to 'sit on their hands' but to 'do something' in the face of challenges and lies. It emphasizes the importance of being involved in the democratic process, from voting to advocating for one's beliefs.

💡Voting

Voting is the act of expressing an opinion or choice in a formal election. The script highlights the power of voting as a means to shape the country's future, stating that 'our fate is in our hands.' It calls for a large voter turnout to 'overwhelm any effort to suppress us' and to ensure that every vote counts in the election.

Highlights

The contagious power of hope is making a comeback, spreading across the country.

The anticipation of a brighter day and the chance to vanquish the demons of fear, division, and hate.

The mourning of the dimming of hope and the personal grief experienced by the speaker.

The moral compass set by the speaker's mother, emphasizing hard work, humility, and decency.

The belief in the value of all people and the opportunity for anyone to succeed.

The mother's volunteer work and the importance of thankless, unglamorous work for the nation's fabric.

Values passed on through family farms, factory towns, and communities, emphasizing helping others.

Kamala Harris's upbringing and her mother's teachings on justice, lifting others, and responsibility.

Kamala Harris's journey from a middle-class background to the Vice Presidency of the United States.

Kamala Harris's readiness for the presidency and her embodiment of the American dream.

The importance of not having a monopoly on what it means to be an American and valuing all contributions.

Kamala's life of service and pushing doors of opportunity open to others.

The contrast between Kamala's allegiance to the nation and the anger and bitterness of others.

The distortion of Kamala's truth and the need to stand against misogyny, racism, and lies.

The call to action for everyone to vote and the importance of overwhelming voter suppression efforts.

The reminder of the despair felt and the need to not forget what the country is up against.

The acknowledgment of Kamala and Tim's humanity and the collective responsibility to support them.

The call for unity regardless of political affiliation to stand up for decency, humanity, and democracy.

The final call to action to work tirelessly for the next 77 days to elect Kamala Harris and Tim Walls.

The introduction of Barack Obama as someone who strengthens democracy and thinks about the country's best interests.

Transcripts

all

right

something I I something Wonder magical

is in the air isn't it

yeah you know we're feeling it here in

this Arena but it's spreading all across

this country we love a familiar feeling

that's been buried too deep for far too

long you know what I'm talking about

it's the contagious power of

Hope the

anticipation the energy the exhilaration

of once again being on the cusp of a

brighter day the chance to Vanquish the

Demons of fear Division and hate that

have consumed us and continue pursue

uing The Unfinished promise of this

great nation the dream that our parents

and grandparents fought and died and

sacrificed

for America hope is making a

comeback

yeah

but to be honest

I am realizing that until

recently I have mourned the dimming of

that

hope and maybe you've experienced the

same feelings is that deep pit in my

stomach a palpable sense of dread about

the

future and for me that mourning has also

been mixed with my own personal grief

the last time I was here in my hometown

was to memorialize my

mother the woman who showed me the

meaning of hard work and humility and

decency the woman who set my moral

compass high and showed me the power of

my own

voice

folks I still feel her loss so

profoundly I wasn't even sure if I'd Be

steady enough to stand before you

tonight but my heart compelled me to be

here because of the sense I of Duty that

I feel to honor her

memory and and to and to remind us

all not to squander the sacrifices our

elders made to give us a better future

you

see my mom in her steady quiet way lived

out that striving sense of hope every

single day of her life she believed that

all children all all people have

value that anyone can succeed have given

the

opportunity she and my father didn't

aspire to be wealthy in fact they were

suspicious of folks who took more than

they needed they

understood that it wasn't enough for

their kids to thrive if everyone else

around us was

drowning so my mother volunteered at the

local school she she always looked out

for the other Kids on the

Block she was glad to do the thankless

unglamorous work that for Generations

has strengthened the fabric of this

nation the belief that if you do unto

others if you love thy neighbor if you

work and scrape and sacrifice it will

pay off if not for you then maybe for

your children or your

grandchildren you see those

values have been passed on through

Family Farms in Factory towns through

treein streets and crowded tenaments

through prayer groups and National Guard

units and social studies

classrooms those were the values my

mother poured into me until her very

last

breath kamla Harris and I built our

lives on those same foundational

values even though our mothers grew up

in Ocean

apart they shared the same belief in the

promise of this country

that's

why her mother moved here from India at

19 it's why she taught kamla about

Justice about the obligation to lift

others up about our responsibility to

give more than we

take she'd often tell her daughter don't

sit around and complain about things do

something so

with that voice in her head kamla went

out and she worked hard in school

graduating from an

HBCU earning her law degree at a state

school and then she went on to work for

the people fighting to hold law Breakers

accountable strengthening the rule of

law fighting to get folks better wages

cheaper prescription drugs a good

education decent Health Care Child Care

Elder Care from a middle class household

kamla worked her way up to become Vice

President of the United States of

America my

girl kamla Harris is more than ready for

this

moment she is one of the most qualified

people ever to seek the office of the

presidency

and she is one of the most

dignified a tribute to her mother to my

mother and to your mother

too the

embodiment of the stories we tell

ourselves about this country her story

is your story it's my story it's the

story of the vast majority of Americans

trying to build a better life look kamla

knows like we do that regardless of

where you come from what you look like

who you love how you worship or what's

in your bank account we all deserve the

opportunity to build a decent life all

of our contributions deserve to be

accepted and

valued because no one has a monopoly on

what it means to be an American no one

Kamala has shown her allegiance to this

nation not by spewing anger and

bitterness but by living a life of

service and always pushing the doors of

opportunity open to others she

understands that most of us will never

be afforded the grace of failing

forward we will never benefit from the

affirmative action of generational

wealth

if if we bankrupt a

business if we bankrupt a business or

choke in a crisis we don't get a second

third or fourth

chance if things don't go our way we

don't have the luxury of whining or

cheating others to get further ahead

no we don't get to change the rules so

we always win if we see a mountain in

front of us we don't expect there to be

an escalator waiting to take us to the

top

no we put our heads

down we get to work in America we do

something and throughout her entire

life that's what we've seen from kamla

Harris the steel of her spine the

steadiness of her upbringing the honesty

of her example and yes the joy of her

laughter and her

light it couldn't be more

obvious of the two major candidates in

this race

only KLA Harris truly understands the

Unseen labor and unwavering commitment

that has always made America

great now

unfortunately we know what comes

next we know folks are going to do

everything they can to distort her

truth my husband and I sadly know a

little something something about

this for years Donald Trump did

everything in his power to try to make

people fear

us see his his limited narrow view of

the world made him feel threatened by

the existence of two hardwork and highly

educated successful people who happen to

be black

wait I I I want to

know I want to know who's going to tell

them who's going to tell him that the

job he's currently seeking might just be

one of those black

jobs no

it's his same old

con his same old con doubling down on

ugly misogynistic racist lives as a

substitute for real ideas and solutions

that will actually make people's lives

better look because cutting our health

care taking away our freedom to control

our bodies the freedom to become a

mother through IVF like I did those

things are not going to improve the

health outcomes of our wives mothers and

daughters shutting down the Department

of Education Banning our books none of

that will prepare our kids for the

future demonizing our children for being

who they are and loving who they love

look that doesn't make anybody's life

better

instead

instead it only makes us

small and let me tell you this going

small is never the

answer going small is the opposite of

what we teach our kids going small is

petty it's unhealthy and quite frankly

it's unpresidential

so why would any of

us accept this from anyone seeking our

highest office why would we normalize

that type of backward

leadership doing so only demeans and

cheapens our politics it only serves to

further discourage good big-hearted

people from wanting to get involved at

all America

our parents taught us better than that

and we deserve so much better than

that that's why we must do everything in

our power to elect two of those good

big-hearted people there is no other

choice than kamla Harris and Tim Walls

no other

choice

but as we Embrace this renewed sense of

hope let us not forget the despair we

have

felt let us not forget what we are up

against yes kamla and Tim are doing

great now we're loving it they're

packing Arenas across the country folks

are energized we are feeling

good

but remember there are still so many

people who are desperate for a different

outcome who are ready to question and

criticize every move kamla makes who are

eager to spread those lies who don't

want to vote for a woman who will

continue to prioritize building their

wealth over ensuring that everyone has

enough so no matter how good we feel

tonight or tomorrow or the next day this

is going to be an uphill B battle so

folks we cannot be our own worst

enemies

no see cuz the minute something goes

wrong the minute a lie takes hold folks

we cannot start ringing our

hands we cannot get a Goldilocks complex

about whether everything is just

right

and we cannot

indulge our anxieties about whether this

country will elect someone like kamla

instead of doing everything we can to

get someone like kamla

elected kamla and

Tim they have lived amazing lives and I

I am confident that they will lead with

passion inclusion and Grace but they are

still only

human they are not perfect and like all

of us they will make

mistakes but luckily y'all this is not

just on them no uh-uh this is up to us

all of us to be the solution that we

seek it's up to all of us to be the

anecdote to the darkness and

division look I don't care how you

identify politically whether you're

Democrat Republican independent or none

of the above this is our time to stand

up for what we know in our hearts is

right to stand up not just for our basic

freedoms but for decency and Humanity

for basic respect dignity and

empathy for the values at the very

Foundation of this

democracy it's up to us to remember what

kamla's mother told her don't just sit

around and complain do something so if

they lie about her and they will we've

got to do something if we see a bad poll

and we will we got to put down that

phone and do something if we start

feeling tired if we start feeling that

dread creeping back in we got to pick

ourselves up throw water on our face and

what we only have 2 and A2 months y'all

to get this

done only 11 weeks to make sure every

single person we know is registered and

has a voting

plan

so we cannot for for anyone anyone

anyone America to sit on their hands and

wait to be

called don't complain if no one from the

campaign has specifically reached out to

you to ask you for your

support there is simply no time for that

kind of

foolishness you know what you need to

do so

consider this to be your official ask

Michelle Obama is asking you no I'm

telling y'all to do

something

[Applause]

because you all

[Applause]

this election is going to be

close in some states just a handful

listen to me a handful of votes and

every Precinct could decide the winner

so we need to vote in numbers that erase

any doubt we need to overwhelm any

effort to suppress

us our fate is in our hands in 77 days

we have the power to turn our country

away from the fear Division and

smallness of the

past we have the power to marry our hope

with our

action we have the

power to pay forward the love sweat and

sacrifice of our mothers and fathers and

all those who came before us we did it

before y'all and we sure can do it again

let us work like our lives depend on it

and let us keep moving our country

forward and go higher yes always higher

than we've ever gone before as we elect

the next president and vice president of

the United States KLA Harris and Tim

Walls thank you all God bless

now before I

go I have one more job

tonight

yeah one more

job you all thank you for all the love

but it is now my honor to introduce

somebody

who knows a whole lot about

hope someone who has spent his life

strengthening our democracy and let me

tell you as someone who lives with him

he wakes up every day every day and

thinks about what's best for this

country please welcome America's 44th

president and the love of my life Barack

Obama