Former President Barack Obama on Wednesday welcomed the " change of mentality " operated by Americans demonstrating against racism and police violence, which he said could lead to reforms at the national level.
Donald Trump's predecessor also urged state and local authorities to review their policy on the use of force in his first video commentary since the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police on May 25.
Read also: Police officer involved in the death of George Floyd now prosecuted for "murder"
" It is very important for us to seize this moment that has just been created as a society, as a country, and to use this to finally have an impact, " said Barack Obama during a videoconference with activists, referring to the thousands of people who took to the streets to denounce police brutality, racism and social inequalities. " There is a change of mentality underway, a greater awareness that we can do better, " he added.
Read also: Donald Trump on the front line facing anger
Barack Obama, 58, who remains very popular with Democrats, said the current protests paint " a much more representative picture of America " than the civil rights movements of the 1960s. Young people particularly responded, and their motivation could inspire deeper change, he said. " I want you to know that you count. I want you to know that your lives count, your dreams count, "continued the former president, to the attention of young blacks in the country who, he says, have witnessed or been victims of violence too many times.
He also addressed local elected officials. " I urge every mayor in this country to review their policies on the use of force with members of their community and to commit to being accountable for the promised reforms ," he said. The first black president of the United States called for cooperation between individuals to " change America " and help it conform to its values.