My Message to the Class of 2026

追加: 2026-05-26

[00:00:00]We're in trouble right now.

[00:00:04]With each passing day the systems that have been in place in this nation for nearly 250 years to advance democracy and prevent authoritarianism are under ever greater strain.

[00:00:23]Why is democracy so important and authoritarianism so dangerous?

[00:00:34]Because the moral purpose of a civilized society is to prevent the stronger from attacking and exploiting the weaker.

[00:00:47]But let me be absolutely clear.

[00:00:51]Unfettered might does not make right.

[00:00:58]>> [applause] >> It's the responsibility of every one of us and of this great university to do whatever we can to preserve democracy.

[00:01:17]Fight authoritarianism.

[00:01:19]>> [applause] >> Protect freedom of speech and expression.

[00:01:26]>> [applause and cheering] >> And treat all workers well.

[00:01:33]>> [applause and cheering] >> It is the responsibility of all of us to seek the truth and speak truth to power regardless of any pressures and threats the powerful may place on us.

[00:01:53]And it is our responsibility.

[00:01:56]Our responsibility.

[00:01:59]All of ours.

[00:02:01]To work toward a society based on inclusion rather than exclusion.

[00:02:10]>> [applause and cheering]