Obama Reinforces Immigration Reform in Lunar New Year Message

US President Barack Obama sent a Lunar New Year message to people celebrating the festival in the US and all around the world on Wednesday, February 18. Obama reminisced the Lunar New Year celebrations in Hawaii, where he grew up, saying it was a perfect example of how cultures and faiths mixed in the country.

Obama took advantage of the occasion to gather support for his immigration reform plans, which has drawn opposition from 26 states across the nation. “Our vast array of traditions and perspectives and backgrounds – our melting pot – is what makes America unique. It’s what keeps us fresh and dynamic and entrepreneurial,” said Obama.

This video shows Obama’s Lunar New Year message. Chinese New Year on Thursday, February 19 will mark the start of the year of the goat in the Chinese zodiac. Credit: YouTube/The White House