He described the U.S. as a nation founded on the principle that "all men are created equal."
"It's an idea that we cannot abandon," he said, adding "but some want to see it abandoned."
STORY: The Democratic president is trying to shore up support with African-American voters, who are key constituents of his party and crucial to his re-election.
He described the U.S. as a nation founded on the principle that "all men are created equal."
"It's an idea that we cannot abandon," he said, adding "but some want to see it abandoned."