President Obama’s Halloween Message
White House, October 31, 2011
Good morning.
Nearly 500 years ago, the people of Scotland set aside this evening as All-Hallows-Even, that is, the night before All Hallows Day. Since then, the ancestors of Americans have looked for inspiration in the giving and receiving of treats on this night.
Americans have long enjoyed dressing up in festive costumes at parties or to usher children from door to door to “trick or treat”. Nothing could be more American!
We honor this tradition that reminds us how spreading wealth raises the prospects of families who are struggling in these hard times.
The simple message shines like a beacon in then night: to each according to his or her need from those who have more than enough.
That is why Americans who have done well, myself included, should be able to chip in a little bit so that those with empty bags might be satisfied.
While only a few American’s are active in a coven, or choose to take part in Wiccan midnight rituals, or form rock circles or pentagrams in praising our Mother Earth, we can all join in sympathy with the values of receiving as much free treats possible in the generous spirit of Halloween!
It’s going to take bold and immediate action to confront this economic crisis that we face. That’s why I’m committed to transform America into a place where more of us enjoy the wealth that has for too long been horded by the top one percent.
Earlier this year, I announced my National Health Care and Economic Recovery Plan that will provide low or no cost care to everyone who asks while at the same time reducing the deficit and costs over all! Our plan will create or save 7.5 million new jobs, reduce the sea level and carbon emissions while making the investments we need to fuel long-term economic growth, stability and a greener planet.
But this Halloween, we are reminded that the renewal of our economy won’t come from policies and plans alone - it will take the hard work, innovation, dedication to the cause of re-distribution, and strength of the American people.
Like returning home from a costume party, it will mean taking off the masks that have hidden our true potential.
It is a testament to our national character that so many Americans this Halloween are giving away treats to any child who asks. None will be left empty bagged. It is this spirit that binds us together as one American family - the belief that we rise and fall as one people; that we want that American Dream not just for ourselves, but for each other.
That’s the spirit we must summon with powerful incantations as we make a new beginning for our nation. Times are tough. There are difficult months ahead. But we can transform our nation into a place we can all be proud of.
So this evening - with one heart, and one voice, the American people can give thanks to God, — Gaia, Thor, Anubis or what ever male or female deity or higher power you may worship — that a new and brighter day is yet to come.
Thank you and may God Bless America!
That can’t be real.