In a recent visit to Mary's Center, a community health center in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, former First Lady Michelle Obama shared her thoughts with a teenager who wondered why she was visiting.
“We were taught that you have to get to know the community that you’re in, and you have to be a part of that community,” Mrs. Obama explained. “And D.C. is our community now. It’s our home.”
Mrs. Obama’s outings beyond the White House grounds are not just about exploring the city. They give her a chance to understand the different parts of D.C., a place she decided not to move to after Barack Obama became a senator in 2005.
In a heartwarming moment captured by photographer Ben Hines, a touching photo was taken of 2-year-old Parker Curry during a visit to the National Portrait Gallery. The little girl was gazing in awe at the official portrait of Mrs. Obama. Ben Hines shared with BuzzFeed News, “It was so touching and uplifting to see this beautiful child looking at a beautiful portrait of a powerful woman.”
Jessica Curry, Parker’s mom, said that seeing her daughter captivated by such a large portrait was a special moment. “As a little person looking at a portrait that large, I can imagine it’s fascinating,” she told BuzzFeed News. “She had a little moment.”
Jessica also shared her hopes for her daughter, saying, “In the world we live in today, I’m just trying to raise a little girl who has opportunities to see women who look like her doing great things.”
When the story went viral, Parker and her mom were featured on BuzzFeed News’ AM to DM. Parker, who will turn 3 soon, expressed her excitement, saying, “I want to see her,” referring to Mrs. Obama. When asked what she would tell Mrs. Obama, Parker simply said, “She’s a queen.”
Parker’s wish came true when Mrs. Obama shared a video of their meeting. In the footage, Mrs. Obama is seen dancing with Parker while her mom Jessica and little sister Ava watch from the side. Mrs. Obama wrote, “Parker, I’m so glad I had the chance to meet you today (and for the dance party)!” She added, “Keep on dreaming big for yourself...and maybe one day I’ll proudly look up at a portrait of you!”
Watch the video here:
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(via Michelle Obama , WJHL )