And when the Guatemalan flag went by, all the kids of Guatemalan heritage shouted out. So when the Haitian flag went by, all the Haitian kids - Haitian American kids shouted out. And each one was applauded by the graduates and the relatives with ties to those countries. But they worked hard and they gave it their all, and so they earned those diplomas.Īnd at the ceremony, 181 flags - one for every nation that was represented - was marched across the stage. A handful had discovered only in adolescence or adulthood that they were undocumented. Many of the students were immigrants themselves, coming to America with little more than the dream of their parents and the clothes on their back. The graduates were proud that their class could claim heritage from 181 countries around the world - 181 countries. You know, about a week ago, I delivered a commencement address at Miami Dade Community College, which is one of the most diverse schools in the nation. And I want to express my appreciation to all of you for taking the time to come out today. THE PRESIDENT: You say you live here? You don’t need it, huh? (Laughter.) Well, it is a great honor to be here.
(Laughter.) Those of you who are still wearing your jackets, feel free to take them off. (Applause.) So, in appreciation, I wanted to give a big policy speech outside on a really hot day. THE PRESIDENT: I love you back! (Applause.) Even the welcomes are bigger. (Applause.) Everything is bigger in Texas. THE PRESIDENT: Hello, El Paso! (Applause.) Well, it is wonderful - wonderful to be back with all of you in the Lone Star State.