On November 4, 2008, history was made. At the time I was only 11 years old and did not fully understand the significance of America electing our first African American president. Barack Obama broke the glass ceiling for minorities the night he was elected while also instilling the one idea he ran on, hope. President Obama has succeeded in given the American people hope over the past eight years and still to this day. He has also succeeded in being one the of greatest presidents America has ever had.
I could list all the amazing things Barack Obama have done for this country but then my article would turn into a rather long book. However, one of President Obama's greatest accomplishments was signing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010. The ACA has given healthcare to more than 30 million Americans, which has saved thousands of lives.
Other than finally providing Americans with universal health care, President Obama also ended The Great Recession. After inheriting a disastrous economy in 2009 Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which lead to economic growth within months. Obama is also leaving office with a 10-year low unemployment rate of 4.6 percent, which is 4.7 percent lower than the rate when he first took office.
President Obama is a supporter of LBGTQ rights for Americans. On June 26, 2015, the Supreme Court ruled same-sex marriage be legal in all states. Obama then tweeted, "Today is a big step in our march toward equality. Gay and lesbian couples now have the right to marry, just like anyone else. #LoveWins"
President Obama also stood up for women in 2009 when he signed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act which works to end pay discrimination. And we can't forget the epic moment at the United State of Women Summit event last year when Barry so eloquently said, "I may be a little grayer than I was eight years ago, but this is what a feminist looks like."
We also can't forget the relationship goals Barack and Michelle gave us that made our hearts sing. Or the endless dad jokes the president was able to fit into almost every situation. Not to mention the fabulous dad jeans. Barack was undoubtedly the coolest president this country has ever had.
President Obama, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for dedicating nearly a decade of your life to the people of this country. I, and the rest of America will forever be indebted to you for your phenomenal service. You and Michelle have become remarkable role models to millions of Americans, including myself. You have changed this country for the better and have given us hope for the tomorrows ahead. Thank you.
"Yes we can. Yes we did." - Barack Obama, 44th President of the United States of America
