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Barack And Michelle Obama Address Class Of 2020: 'You Are Exactly What We Need'

Updated September 3, 2021

Graduation is a super important milestone in anyone's life, whether it's finishing high school, or finishing college. Not only does it signify the next huge chapter in your life is about to start, it's also one final hurrah for you and all the friends you've made along the way.

The class of 2020 doesn't get quite the same graduation experience as everyone else due to the Coronavirus pandemic, but The Obamas came together to address them in an amazing way.

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"Congratulations to the Class of 2020," The Obamas began their address.

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"This is a huge day for all of you, and we couldn't be more excited to be celebrating with you all today," they continued.

How many people get to say that both Barack and Michelle Obama gave your your commencement address?

They went on to explain that even though circumstances aren't ideal, the importance of the event isn't diminished.

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"While you might not get the experience of sweating under your cap and gown in the hot sun, or getting embarrassed by your family yelling out your name when you walk across the stage, you still have all those people with you today, just like they've been with you this whole journey. Rooting you on, pushing you to grow, and offering you a hand if you needed it," Michelle said.

"These folks deserve your love and gratitude for helping you get here, so give them a squeeze if you're with them right now."

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"Especially the dads," Barack joked, before speaking himself.

"Today is the culmination of a long journey. Think back to when you were starting your first year. You were probably just hoping that by graduation day you would've found your people, learned some new skills, got yourself ready for your next step."

"Maybe college, maybe grad school. Maybe your first job."

“America changed, and has always changed, because young people dared to hope,” Barack said. “Democracy isn’t about relying on some charismatic leader to make changes from on high. It’s about finding hope in ourselves and creating it in others. Especially in a time like this.”

“Graduates, you all are exactly what we need right now,” Michelle added, “and for the years and decades to come.”

Amazing!

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