In a far-ranging commencement address, "Hamilton" creator Lin-Manuel Miranda passionately reminded University of Pennsylvania graduates of all the historical contributions made by immigrants.

"In a year when politicians traffic it in anti-immigrant rhetoric, there is also a Broadway musical reminding us that a broke, orphan immigrant from the West Indies built our financial system," Miranda said. "A story that reminds us that since the beginning of the great, unfinished symphony that is our American experiment, time and time again, immigrants get the job done."

Miranda's heartfelt speech on behalf of American immigrants earned him a standing ovation from students and university president Amy Gutmann.

Similarities to Obama's Rutgers Address

In taking a page out of the book of President Obama and the style he recently employed in delivering his commencement address at Rutgers University, Miranda never mentioned any presidential candidate by name.

Just days before, Obama told grads that building a wall along the Mexican border, in the way that presumptive Republic nominee Donald Trump has proposed, is not the way of the future, while questioning the intellectual validity of those who refute things such as climate change.

In his speech, Miranda added yet another layer, reminding grads that each of their unique stories of perseverance infinitely matter.

"I know that many of you made miracles happen to get to this day," he said. "I know because my family made miracles happen for me to be standing here, talking to you, telling stories. Your stories are essential."

Another Honor for 'Hamilton'

Prior to taking the stage, Miranda was awarded an honorary Doctor of Arts, largely based on his achievements with "Hamilton," which include earning a Grammy, a Pulitzer Prize, and a record-setting 16 Tony Award nominations.

"There will be blind alleys and one night wonders and soul crushing jobs and wake up calls and crises of confidence," counselled Miranda to young Penn graduates. "Moments of transcendence when you are walking down the street and someone will thank you for telling their story because it resonated with their own."

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