Obama to CBC awards crowd: 'Stop complaining'

President Barack Obama held a speech Saturday evening at the Congressional Black Caucus annual awards banquet, asking the audience to urge Capital Hill to pass his jobs bill.

"We have to do more to put people to work right now," Obama said. "We've got to make sure that everyone in this country gets a fair shake, a fair shot, and a chance to get ahead. That starts with getting this Congress to pass the American Jobs Act. This is a no-brainer."

"Let's put our people back to work doing the work America needs done. Let's pass this jobs bill."

During the speech, Obama struck somewhat of an authoritative tone to the audience.

"Take off your bedroom slippers. Put on your marching shoes," he said. "Shake it off. Stop complaining. Stop grumblin'. Stop crying. We are going to press on. We have work to do."

WATCH: Video from C-Span, which aired on September 24, 2011.