Former President Barack Obama has called on Americans to protect democratic values and resist President Donald Trump’s policies, warning citizens to be ready to “sacrifice” in defense of freedom and social justice.
Speaking at Hamilton College in New York, Obama stressed the importance of citizens and institutions standing firm against Trump’s political agenda and ensuring the protection of democratic rights.
“It’s been easy to call yourself a progressive or say you stand for social justice, but now you’re going to have to pay a price for it,” Obama said, highlighting the need for commitment and sacrifice to uphold democratic values.
The former president voiced concern about Trump’s attempts to reshape the international order and undermine free speech and the rule of law within the United States.
Obama criticized Trump’s economic policies, particularly new tariffs, but expressed even deeper concern over threats to universities exercising free speech. He pointed to actions by the Trump administration to withdraw federal funding from institutions supporting diversity and academic freedom, warning that students and schools must be ready to defend their values even if it means losing federal support.
“It’s up to all of us to fix this,” Obama said, urging citizens to stand up, say “No, this is not right,” and act to defend democracy and individual rights.
