U.S. President Barack Obama greeted the Jewish people on Thursday on the occasion of the holiday of Passover.
“The story of the Exodus is thousands of years old, but it remains as relevant as ever,” Obama said. “Throughout our history, there are those who have targeted the Jewish people for harm - a fact we were so painfully reminded of just a few weeks ago in Toulouse. Just as throughout history, there have been those who have sought to oppress others because of their faith, ethnicity or color of their skin.”
Obama said that as Jews sit for the Passover Seder on Friday night “they will ask one of our life's most difficult questions: Once we have passed from bondage to liberty, how do we make the most of all that God has given us?”
He added, “This question may never be resolved, but throughout the years, the search for answers has deepened the Jewish people's commitment to repairing the world, and inspired American Jews to help make our union more perfect. And the story of that first Exodus has also inspired those who are not Jewish with common hopes, and a common sense of obligation.”
“So this is a very special tradition - and it's one I'm proud to be taking part of tomorrow night, at the fourth annual White House Seder. Led by Jewish members of my staff, we'll retell the story of the Exodus, listen to our youngest guest ask the four questions, and of course, look forward to a good bowl of matzo ball soup.”
“Michelle and I are proud to celebrate with friends here at home and around the world, including those in the State of Israel,” said Obama. “So on behalf of the entire Obama family, Chag Sameach.”