Dear Barack Obama,

For as long as you have been in the public eye, you have been an inspiration to millions. You gave our country hope and amazing leadership. You have shown me and many others that you can do whatever you want to do in life and not be afraid of judgment or criticism. You have inspired me to be more active in politics and allow my voice to be heard. Also, your kindness towards others is extremely admirable. You are a huge inspiration to me to this day.

When I saw the positive impact you had on our country, it inspired me to act. You showed me that I have a voice and it needs to be heard. For example, I started to get more into politics by being in commercials for local politicians, canvassing as many neighborhoods as I could and attending many rallies and marches. When I heard you speaking out about Black Lives Matter recently and when you were talking specifically about black youth, it was very emotional and made me want to help in any way that I could, by protesting and donating. I would not have taken part in those activities if it weren’t for you.

You showed me that anything is possible and that I should ignore whoever stands in my way. While you ran for president in 2008, you were faced with criticism but you did not let that stand in the way of success. Instead of giving in, you marched on and eventually won the race. At the same time, you made history as the first African-American president, which is very inspirational. You showed me that I can make my dreams come true if I focus and work hard.

Lastly, you have done so much for our country. You have improved nutrition in schools, expanded health care for children, signed the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to combat pay discrimination against women and so much more. You have changed our country in such a positive way and have fought for all people, no matter their race, sexual orientation, gender and age. You still continue to inspire and lead us even though you are no longer president. You brought important issues to light, which will hopefully result in urgent change.

You have shown me that my voice is important and that I matter. Thank you for all that you have done for our country and especially for the cause of equality. It gives me and many other people hope to know that you will always be here to fight for what’s right.

As you said in the wake of the horrific Tucson 2011 shooting, “We are reminded that, in the fleeting time we have on this Earth, what matters is not wealth, or status, or power, or fame, but rather how well we have loved and what small part we have played in making the lives of other people better.”

Sincerely,
Kate