The name thing

I know people who use fake names at their workplace. In America, in racist America, this is what you do when your name sounds outlandish. Helen, or Jacob just sound more familiar I guess, and what's in a name anyways. You'll sell yourself for whatever it takes, right?! If other people want to define or create your appearance, than you let them. Just give yourself up. Just brain off.

WTF!

Sure, you play by their rules so that one day, when you creep out at the other side of the tunnel, you have the power to revenge yourself and change the game. I don't believe that. If you go through the tunnel today, hiding, sucking up, playing by the rules, you'll never turn into that mighty man who will change the game.

Barack Obama, at the Democratic National Convention, 2004:

My parents shared not only an improbable love; they shared an abiding faith in the possibilities of this nation. They would give me an African name, Barack, or "blessed," believing that in a tolerant America your name is no barrier to success.

Listen to his full speech via iTunes.