OK, there I said it. I've wanted to make this post for quite some time, but was apprehensive of the message that this would send to some supporters, either Democrat or Republican, male or female, black or white. But with my colleagues, friends and family, the question comes up repeatedly...is America really ready for a black leader?
Barack Obama is a stellar political leader who happens to be African-American. He has many significant attributes and leader traits much like the civil rights icon, Martin Luther King, Jr. and the assassinated president, John Kennedy. His charisma, style and carefully articulated use of words has the ability to motivate hope and change in those that listen. As I listen to his speeches, watch his debates and read the news stories on his campaign, I am convinced that this man is who America needs to set it on the right track. He has the passion and drive, knowledgeable on the issues and the right connections to make things happen. But the question remains…is America really ready for a Black president?
We live in a country where there is a burgeoning of freedom and equality for all, in different cultures, races, and sexes. We are living in a time very different from the climate of the 1960s and an era where people stayed on their “own” side. We have made many strides towards becoming a nation of equality, but no matter how you look at it and how you analyze it, we are STILL living in a time where discrimination is practiced and lines are still drawn in the sand. Even in our modern times, hate disguises itself in various ways; Internet hate discussion forums, job discrimination, cultural stereotypes and others. Yes, we have come a long way, but there is so much more to do to educate and sensitize America. Are we ready?
Barack Obama represents all that we have accomplished in over 50 years of working towards becoming a sensitive nation and a fair nation. Not once in political history has there been a serious African-American, or any other non-white candidate, for the office of the presidency. Yes, I remember Jesse Jackson, but I’m talking about a serious candidate with serious views and on a trek to change things, seriously. Barack Obama represents what this country needs and what we equate to there being “time” for a change in our political climate and in our country. With the ongoing war, issues on healthcare and social security and global warming, people are not only ready but they are starving for a change. But, are we ready?
Obama is a viable, real and serious candidate for the most important job in the White House. I believe that his passion is true to wanting change and the ability to bring about that change. Barack is young and has a young family. He has even said that he had aspirations of becoming the president of the United States ever since he was a young boy. Talk about dreaming! I also believe that if he were elected as president, the country would experience a remarkable difference in international affairs, race relations and social issues in this country. Yes, we need change. Yes, we need adjustments on social issues. Yes, we need someone who knows what they're doing.
But, is Barack the answer to our prayers?
Are we ready?
.jpg)
Are we ready? I do not know. But I think Obama's campaign seems very impressive. Ambitious -- I saw it on him. Once when I read one of his books 'The Audacity of Hope', I did know it: http://dealstudio.com/searchdeals.php?deal_id=39018&ru=279 , His analysis of the world situation, from the US, to Indonesia, to Africa, to Iraq shows a much deeper understanding than would be evident from the debates. a Black President? Now I really think his ambition will make him big chance.....
Posted by: Lisa | February 18, 2008 9:16 PM | Permalink to Comment