//Barack Obama Urges Americans to Defend Democratic Values Amidst Trump Administration's Policies//Barack Obama
In a compelling address at Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, former President Barack Obama called upon American citizens, educational institutions, and legal professionals to actively oppose the political agenda of President Donald Trump, emphasizing the necessity of defending democratic values, free speech, and social justice, even at personal cost. He expressed concern over the administration's efforts to undermine academic freedom and dissent, particularly through actions such as withholding federal funding from universities unless they abandon student diversity programs and adhere to new protest guidelines, especially concerning pro-Palestine demonstrations. Columbia University, for instance, faced a loss of $400 million in funding over related issues, prompting significant policy changes, while other institutions like Harvard and Princeton are also under federal scrutiny. Obama warned of a growing intolerance toward ideological disagreement and criticized the administration for targeting corporate law firms and restricting press access. He urged institutions and citizens alike to examine their values and be willing to take tangible action in defense of democratic norms.