And yet I resist citing my “intelligence” or “abilities” to defend my presence here, because a human being need not be a Rhodes scholar to be treated with basic fairness and decency. A human being shouldn’t have to be a “genius” or “economically productive” to have access to equal opportunity. We are your co-workers, your friends, your classmates and your fellow Americans — we work, learn and laugh alongside you. These are the sights and sounds that nurtured me as I became the person I am today. Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook, Twitter (@NYTopinion) and Instagram.

Source: New York Times January 11, 2019 11:00 UTC