The following are remarks given by Allegheny College senior Afua Osei on April 19 prior to President Clinton's talk.
Good afternoon everyone. It is a pleasure to be here today and have the opportunity to speak to you all about the innovative and engaging work of Allegheny's Center for Political Participation and why I personally support Hillary Clinton and believe she should be the next president of the United States.
As a former fellow of the Center for Political Participation, I along with other top Allegheny students and Director and Allegheny political science professor Dr. Daniel Shea, developed programs and initiatives dedicated to helping all Americans — regardless of age, race, gender, education level, or socio-economic status — better understand the importance of civic engagement and participating in the process.
Founded in the Fall of 2002, the CPP, as it is often referred to, has spent more than 5 years establishing student centered programs, scholarly research, and community outreach.
Throughout all of its programs and initiatives, the CPP is dedicated to fostering an appreciation for the vital link between an engaged, active citizenry and a healthy democracy. This event today is a perfect example of the CPP's commitment to engaging all Americans in substantive dialogue on the critical issues facing this nation and the world. Launched last fall, the Soapbox Alliance is a group of educational institutions working together to end the practice of holding closed campaign events in campus facilities. This alliance seeks not to make the lives of campaigns difficult but to truly cultivate responsible citizens by allowing all — regardless of how much they agree with one's ideas — to experience the excitement of democracy and authentic political engagement and debate. I am thrilled that President Clinton has recognized the importance of engaging regular Americans in this exciting presidential nomination process with his visit to Allegheny College.
Today I have the pleasure of speaking not only of my admiration for the work of the Center for Political Participation but I have also been blessed to speak about my personal support and admiration for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton. Now I must say for tax collection purposes that Allegheny College and the CPP are not non-partisan entities and do not endorse any candidates. With that being said, I think its just great that I am a senior graduating in 21 days and am no longer a fellow for the CPP, because I am in love with Hillary Clinton in a platonic, friendly admirer kind of way and fully support her candidacy for the presidency of the United States.
I support Hillary Clinton because I see myself in her. She motivates and inspires me to fight for the principles I believe in and speak for those whose voice is rarely heard.
In Hillary, I see someone with great initiatives and real solutions for America, who understands the importance of bringing together the best minds from every segment of society to solve real challenges to our country and the world.
A woman who is a proven leader with a strong moral compass, who fully believes in representing the people's interests and being responsive to their true needs.
A woman who is fiercely intelligent, but isn't too smart to learn new things and adapt to approaching challenges with a fresh outlook and a wealth of knowledge.
A woman whose faith influences her values and policies, but recognizes the importance of spirituality and faith in all people irrespective of their particular religion.
Someone who has achieved amazing feats through hard work and determination but has not forgotten those who are still working harder than ever to fully participate in the American Dream.
I know that Hillary Clinton will represent me, and if she can do it, so can I. Please join me in making sure that there will be true fighter in the White House come November. An advocate for the people — with the compassion, integrity, and courage necessary to make changes to Washington and get our country back on the right track. On April 22nd please go to the polls to ensure that the best candidate for the job, who is ready to make the tough decisions and handle the pressure of the White House will become the Democratic nominee for President. I know that candidate is Hillary Rodham Clinton and I hope you join me in that support. Thank you.
