My mother, Ann Dunham, was the biggest influence on my life. She had a core belief in our common humanity, and she made sure I recognized the inherent dignity in every person. Today I’m proud to share that the Water Garden at the Obama Presidential Center will be named in her honor. The Ann Dunham Water Garden will be a special place for visitors and members of the community to come together and reflect. It will also feature an incredible new sculpture by Maya Lin, whose work I’ve long admired.

Ann Dunham built a distinguished career as an American anthropologist...