Barack Obama is more and more present on the public scene in recent times. On Wednesday June 3, the former President of the United States made a new appearance to welcome the "change of mentality" made among Americans demonstrating against racism and police violence, which he believed could lead to reforms at the national level. .   

Donald Trump's predecessor also urged state and local authorities to review their policy on the use of force in his first video commentary since the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police on May 25. 

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"It is very important for us to seize this moment that has just been created as a society, as a country, and to use this to finally have an impact," Barack Obama said during a videoconference with activists, referring to the thousands of people who took to the streets to denounce police brutality, racism and social inequalities. "There is a change of mentality underway, a greater awareness that we can do better," he added. 

"Your lives matter"

Barack Obama, who remains very popular with Democrats, stressed that the current protests paint "a much more representative picture of America" ​​than the civil rights movements of the 1960s. Young people were particularly present, and their motivation could inspire deeper change, said Barack Obama. 

"I want you to know that you count. I want you to know that your lives matter, your dreams count," he said, to the young blacks in the country who he said were too many times. witnesses or victims of violence. 

The former president also addressed local elected officials. "I urge every mayor in this country to review their policies on the use of force with members of their community and to commit to being accountable for the promised reforms," ​​he said. 

The first black president of the United States called for cooperation among individuals to "change America" ​​and help it conform to its values. 

With AFP

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