What it Means to be an American | Sarah Jane O'Connor | TEDxDeerfield

In her talk, Sarah Jane O'Connor discusses the very purpose of the United States and suggests that the US has been defined from its founding as a place of refuge. She compares this original concept of America with recent rises in nationalism, citing examples of similar trends in the past.
Sarah Jane O'Connor is the oldest daughter in a family of six kids and an avid runner. Her interest in international affairs and politics stems from participating in Model United Nations, writing for the Deerfield Academy Scroll, and taking a variety of thought-provoking history classes throughout her high school career.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx

[@maryelizabethoconnor469]

you are more than we ever expected and better than we ever imagined... so proud, sweetheart❤️mom

[@Eccentric-YURR]

Being American is being born in the American continent, North, Central, and South.

[@maddiepatrick7630]

This was an amazing speech! I referred to this while writing in a discussion board for my english class on being American. So, thank you for your help! xD

[@dominostabz8234]

I agree with her on many points but, Trump isn’t attacking legal immigration, but trying to protect America from illegal immigrations, according to the Washington post illegal immigrant cost the taxpayers 750 billion dollars 6 times more than deportation. Why put Americans under this economic strain rather than having them come legally and lawfully.

[@tdj3e]

was this a speech on what it means to be an american, or why she hates donald trump??? Like she got way sidetracked not gonna lie

[@wafiqessop4034]

Patriotism is also a social construct that one should not cling too tightly imo. Just bee a good person and don't desstroy anything while you are at it.

[@cinewill1]

Learned more than at College. Must be a reincarnated founding father...

[@antoniomolina3867]

Brilliant young girl, well presented, articulated and expressed. Being American means believing ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL. It is impossible to improve that sentence (well, adding WOMEN too, and LGTBQ). That is the essence of this country. And yes, I salute you, Lady Liberty... Well done, Sarah, thanks a lot for this.

[@chuckalleman2101]

I wonder if her opinion has changed 5 years later?

[@evakaufman8]

Awe inspiring and amazing. I had to share your speech with people near and far. Especially abroad where people's faith in the American people is starting to fade. Your speech gives hope, that the future of America will be in better hands with our youths. Let's just not wreck it before you guys are ready to take over.

[@TheHorribleUsername]

I have figured it out! I have figured out what it means to be American:

[@Maya_Ruinz]

Wonderful speech, I was thinking of this question and came upon this video, she nails it when she says immigrants are as much a part of this nations history as the original settlers. Just think of all the technology, infrastructure and ideas that might not have been if we turned away foreigners. As a third generation American whose great grandfather came to this country in desperation, I’m proud to be here and I thank my great grandfather for giving us that opportunity.

[@RONALD511]

you are more than we ever expected and better than we ever imagined..YOU ARE AN AMERICAN !!! GOD BLESS ALL AMERICANS

[@catherineoconnor299]

beautiful presentation

[@calvinchan2003]

this video will be my main source for this essay

[@cynthiastocker3103]

What an excellent job. I love to see our young women standing up as leaders!

[@tmsoftgaming2061]

Good job 👏

[@dumpsterfire2]

thats interesting heheh she started getting very sassy for some reason and is entertaining...i dont mean this in a weird pervy way

[@7777coolman]

Amazing presentation!!! Keep up the good work.

[@Beautiful_Disaster28]

Wow. Thank you for this.