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US ex-President Barack Obama on Wednesday welcomed the “change of mentality” operated among Americans demonstrating against racism and police violence, which he said could lead to reforms at the national level.

“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,” Barack Obama said during a videoconference with activists, referring to the thousands of people who took to the streets to denounce police brutality, racism and social inequalities.

“So much of the progress that we’ve made in our society has been because of young people.”—@BarackObama

It will take all of us working together to ensure we can reimagine policing. Be part of the movement. Learn more at https://t.co/aGSLPSV4Fe. pic.twitter.com/EqeOklO30C

— The Obama Foundation (@ObamaFoundation) June 4, 2020

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 were particularly present, and their motivation could inspire deeper change, said Obama.

“I want you to know that you count. I want you to know that your lives count, your dreams count, “he continued, to the attention of young blacks in the country who he says have witnessed or been victims of violence too many times.

The former president 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 among individuals to “change America” ​​and help it conform to its values.