Obama visits UAW-GM, focuses on families and speaks on the future post-term

Aleanna Siacon
Jan 21, 2016
3 min read

In the midst of the Flint water crisis, the declaration of a federal state of emergency and sickouts closing many Detroit Public Schools, Detroit welcomed President Barack Obama on Jan. 20.

After making an appearance at the North American International Auto Show, President Obama enjoyed a lunch at Midtown’s Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria and took the time to browse Shinola Detroit.

At approximately 4 p.m., Obama delivered remarks at the UAW-GM Human Resources Center.

UAW Vice President Cindy Estrada introduced President Obama by accrediting him with the survival of the American auto industry and the creation of jobs.

“You Mr. President, put people first,” said Estrada. “You believed in the UAW Worker in GM and today, the American auto industry is stronger than ever.”

Estrada also referenced the Flint water crisis and thanked Obama for declaring a federal state of emergency.

“It seems that the state of Michigan and its appointed, not democratically elected, emergency manager focused more on the bottom line than it did on the community’s safety and our children,” said Estrada.

Obama then arrived on stage and addressed the crowd with an enthusiastic, “Hello Detroit!”

Soon transitioning to the occurrences in Flint, Obama said that as a father, he would be beside himself if the health of his children was endangered.

“It [Flint water crisis] is a reminder of why you can't short change basic services that we provide to the people and we provide as a government,” said Obama.

He said more resources and assistance will be sent to make sure the people of Flint will get what they need from their country. According to Obama, the White House will “have all of the people of Flint’s back as they work through this terrible tragedy.”

Obama then said that he also visited Detroit for the Auto Show. He told the crowd that he drives in a great American car he affectionately calls, “the beast.”

“Next year I’ve got to give it up! So I figured to do a little browsing now at the auto show,” said Obama. “There’s only one Motor City.”

In recognition of the progress made since the automotive industry crisis and subsequent bailout, Obama said that sacrifices were made for the safety and survival of its citizens.

“What's true of Detroit is true of the country,” said Obama. “I want people to remember how far they've come… When I leave this office, I want you to know that I have faith in you.”

Student Brianna Leathers wrote Obama a letter six years ago and voiced her concern about her father Steve, who worked in the automotive industry. Leathers was present at the event and was acknowledged by Obama in the crowd.

"Today Steve's future is very different," said Obama. "Brianna says she's looking back at all the people who were getting laid off. They all have jobs now.”

Obama said that the Leathers family is just one example of the revitalization of the automotive industry and cases such as theirs multiplying across the country. Comparing the state of things when he first read Leather’s letter to now is why Obama said he has so much confidence in the future.

Throughout his speech, Obama emphasized the importance of families and personal security.

He reiterated his desire to secure two years of community college at no cost to students, spoke about social security, promoted the merits of the Affordable Care Act and mentioned the necessity of alternative energy sources to combat climate change.

“We have to have strong rules to protect the water that our kids drink and the air that our kids breathe,” said President Obama. “Fuel efficient cars reduce the carbon emissions that cause climate change, and create jobs and economic growth while caring for the environment.”

Ultimately, Obama said that he was very proud of what he has done as president and expressed great hope for the future.

For more information, contact reporter Aleanna Siacon: aleanna.siacon@wayne.edu. Follow her on Twitter @AleannaSiacon