It was an honor for me to represent the United States abroad because, like many immigrants, I have a keen understanding of what our country represents. We must not allow the United States to become a country where standing up to our government is a dangerous act. We need to stand up for our values, defend our institutions, participate in civil society and support a free press. But it turns out that our institutions need us as much as we need them; they need the American people to protect them or they will be hollowed out over time, unable to serve and protect our country. They are smart, motivated and idealistic — and yet realistic about the unprecedented challenges facing the United States.

Source: Washington Post February 06, 2020 10:52 UTC