Last night, Americans made history by electing the first African-American President, Barack Hussein Obama, the 44th President of the United States. Last night, Americans proved that they can do anything they set their minds to. And last night, Americans showed their intelligence and diligence by voting for change.
And I learned something last night. I have had my moments of cynicism and skepticism; I have doubted the faith of the American people and their ability to motivate themselves for good. But last night I learned that the people of the United States of America are ready for change. I learned that if they feel strongly enough, Americans will have their voices heard and their ballots counted. I learned that it doesn't matter if you're black or white, male or female, gay or straight; we can all come together and make something happen. And I learned that even though we made it this far, we know that the road ahead is long and treacherous. We know that our work isn't done. It's just beginning. We know that the change that we have longed for is still to come, and that we cannot just go home and sit idly by now that we have elected a new President. Our greatest work is yet to come.
I have not worked as long and as hard as many Americans in bringing this to pass, but I did my small part. I donated my small amount of money, I voted in my state, and I eagerly told anyone who would listen my reasons for supporting our President Elect. And I eagerly look forward to doing my small part in the weeks, months, and years to come. But I am glad to know, that even though the true test lies ahead, that we have taken the first step to making our world a little better.
If you didn't get a chance to see or hear it, I strongly suggest reading both John McCain's concession speech and Barack Obama's acceptance speech. Both moved and inspired me, and I have learned countless things from both of these men as they campaigned together these long months.
Our journey is far from over, and our tasks are piling before us. The worst and hardest days are yet to come, but I will stand with my fellow Americans to see that change is brought to pass. We cheered and cried last night, and today we will plan. I know that the iron-willed and strong-hearted people of the United States of America have voted into the White House change that we can believe in.
We will stand with our families and see our love strengthen. We will stand with our neighbors and see our cities grow. We will stand with our President Elect and see our nation flourish. We will stand with our country and see the world change.
Because we know that we have the power to change the world for good. We know that our future can only be brighter. We know, because Americans are the people who can bring change to our nation.
Yes, we can.
