Barack Obama: “We all have responsibilities.”

In forming our union, the founders fell terribly short of the Declaration's promise, leaving slavery intact, allowing states to restrict the franchise to white men who owned property.

it was nevertheless important that we all play a part in assuring that our elected officials are accountable.

I hope this center will serve as an affirmation of just how special, how precious our democracy truly is.

That's what I hope every visitor to this center takes away from their experience.