In Our Lifetime--Barack Obama

[politicasista]

From the March 2008 issue of EBONY magazine. Check it out. :)




Excerpt:

In Our Lifetime – Barack Obama
Are We Really Witnessing The Election Of The Nation's First Black President

EBONY chronicles Barack Obama’s historic quest to the White House. In his own words, Obama discusses his views regarding foreign policy, the significance of the Black vote and uniting America. An in-depth, one-on-one interview with the presidential hopeful yields insight about his campaign team and why he thinks America is ready for a Black president.

“I do not believe that we can solve health care or high gas prices or the war in Iraq if we can’t unify the country,” said Obama. “I think I can do that better than anybody else in this race.”

http://www.ebonyjet.com/ebony/

[Lisa0825]

1. Beautiful!

I didn't think it would happen yet... when I saw his speech on TV a few years back, I thought "someday..." but I thought the length of national experience would mean he'd wait. I was skeptical at first when he entered the race. But I am fully behind him now, and the prospect of him breaking that racial barrier is without a doubt the most exciting positive political event I have been alive for.

As a typical white Euro-mutt, I sometimes feel like it is... how do I put this... presumptuous? co-opting? for me to feel like this is so important to me since I am not someone who has lived a lifetime dealing with racism. While I may not have to deal with it directly myself, from the first time I ever heard the quote, "If you're not part of the solution, you are part of the problem," I have made my own individual effort to confront any thoughts or reactions that might be learned prejudice. I publicly confront people on any racist statements, and challenge attitudes. I know it's a small contribution comparatively.

But as I make an effort to change the ideas I myself learned growing up, I feel like I "invested" myself emotionally with the people who are the real recipients of prejudice. God, I hope this doesn't sound stupid or corny or arrogant... I am trying to express something I have felt a long time, but have never known how to say it.

So while I will be thrilled to see Barack Obama inaugurated because I feel he is the right President to turn this country around, I will also be cheering as someone who is vicariously thrilled for those for whom the breaking of this barrier is such a huge victory.

[FrenchieCat]

2. I think you said what you feel very well!

Thank you for that! :hi: