Hillary Clinton tells women to keep up the fight
Hillary Rodham Clinton lost the election in which the first woman had the opportunity to shatter the glass ceiling and become president of the United States.
In concession remarks before an audience of supporters in New York City, she called on her supporters to come together after what had been at times a rough-and-tumble campaign. She told them she hoped her erstwhile opponent Donald Trump would be “a successful president of all Americans,” and urged them to do the same.
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“We owe him an open mind and the chance to lead,” she said.
Some might call it a generous concession speech but it was also a poignant message to women.
“To the young people in particular,” Clinton said, “I hope you will hear this: I have spent my entire adult life fighting for what I believe in. I’ve had successes and I’ve had setbacks – sometimes really painful ones.”
She observed that many of her supporters in the audience were at the beginning of their professional and political careers. They would experience successes and setbacks too, she said.
“Please never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it. So we need you to keep up with these fights now, and for the rest of your lives,” she added and then paused as the audience erupted in applause and cheers. “I know we have not shattered that highest and hardest glass ceiling, but someday someone will – and hopefully sooner than we might think right now.”
Then she directed her remarks toward the youngest audience members.
“And to all the little girls who are watching this,” Clinton said, “never doubt that you are valuable and powerful and deserving of every chance and opportunity in the world to pursue and achieve your own dreams.”
Twitter: @Bernie_HITN
Email the writer: bernie.monegain@himssmedia.com