Our Bonds of Affection

We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.

These words from Abraham Lincoln's first inaugural were intended to piece together a fractured country. They offered connection at the end of American History X, punctuating the transition of a broken young man learning from the wrong of his actions.

The recent election results for this country have demonstrated that many Americans, including large populations in higher education, are seeking a new direction. We do not wish to go it alone, however, as our strength is in our numbers.

As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, "We are not enemies, but friends... Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection." And, to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn, I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your president, too.