Readers React: Obama’s stirring words on ‘Bloody Sunday’ in Selma

To the editor: From time to time, I am overwhelmed with a sense of pride and gratitude at being able to call the United States my home. One of those times came while I was listening to our president speak in Selma, Ala., on Saturday. (“Obama marks ‘Bloody Sunday’ anniversary: ‘Our march is not yet finished,’” March 7)

For me, President Obama’s speech went way beyond the context of the 50th anniversary of “Bloody Sunday.” It caused me to think about the challenges we are all trying to overcome, individually and as a nation.

I hope we can, from time to time, put aside the politics, the cynicism, the anger and hate, and just be inspired and motivated by the power of words. No matter your feelings about his presidency and policies, if you were not moved in some way by what Obama said last Saturday, you might want to check with your doctor to see if you still have a pulse.

John Saville, Corona

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To the editor: Although a good summary, I feel that your coverage failed to convey the epic nature of Obama’s speech. Yes, the image of the nation’s first black president giving a speech in Selma 50 years after Bloody Sunday was moving, but what was so inspiring were the president’s powerful words.

Obama grounded us in the history that centers on Selma and very effectively showed us how we fit today in what are often confusing times. His challenge to Congress on the Voting Rights Act extended to each American citizen. The president asked us to accept individual responsibility and to help work toward the more perfect union that our country can become.

I wish that every schoolchild and indeed every American could listen to this speech, which I believe is one for the ages.

Gertrude Barden

Porter Ranch

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To the editor: I took to heart one very simple, yet powerfully inspiring message from Obama’s speech in Selma: Our president truly understands America, truly believes in America, truly loves America — perhaps even more so than Rudy Giuliani.

Stan Seidel, Rancho Palos Verdes

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