Former President Barack Obama used the opening ceremony of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago to deliver remarks that included indirect but pointed criticism of President Donald Trump and recent actions by his administration.

During his speech, Obama reflected on the development of American democracy and emphasized the nation’s founding principles of equality, citizenship, and the rule of law.

He described how generations of Americans from different backgrounds expanded democratic participation through petitions, protests, and civic engagement, helping ensure that the promise of the United States applied to all people rather than a select few.

Obama explained that the story presented by the presidential center begins with the history of the nation itself rather than focusing solely on his or Michelle Obama’s personal backgrounds.

His comments came amid controversy surrounding Trump’s reported efforts to influence how American history is presented in federal institutions, including directives affecting exhibits at the Smithsonian Institution and the National Park Service.

Obama reiterated core democratic values found in the Declaration of Independence, stating that all people are created equal and possess inalienable rights.

He also stressed that the United States was founded without kings, lords, subjects, or privileged classes, but instead on the principle of citizenship.

Concluding one of the most notable sections of his remarks, Obama declared that no individual is above the law or beneath its protection, a statement widely interpreted as a critique of Trump’s approach to governance and historical interpretation.

The event marked the formal opening of the Obama Presidential Center and highlighted ongoing debates about American history, democracy, and civic institutions.