We must also look at the changing demographics of America. Currently, minority populations are growing at a faster rate than that of the general population. Our census bureau predicts that by 2050, racial & ethnic minorities will comprise nearly half of the population. In the future, perhaps the progress of African Americans will no longer be so dependent on the approval of one group of people, as it has been for generations now.
Unfortunately, racism is an irrational, unpredictable phenomenon. In all endeavors, there is almost always some type of risk involved. In addition to the normal risks involved in significant undertakings, history has shown us (as African Americans) that we also risk being subjected to racism, as a reaction to our often feared aspirations.
These risks, however, must not overshadow our optimism. After all, this spirit of optimism has lead great leaders of movements to defeat injustice, namely, the civil rights movement. Electing Barack Obama as the first black president is well worth the risk.
1 comment:
While both individuals make good points, I must have a pluralist opinion on the matter of electing Barack Obama. Yes, it goes without saying that if elected, every move and decision President Obama makes will be judged. But what we have seen is that in the heat of the election (e.g. debates) Obama has stayed calm and collected. In fact, he gets better, more articulate and substantive with his maturity in the debates and the election. The real question then becomes, why does America still have a subtle superiority complex when it comes to Black people? To that end, what does race have to do with anything is a country where "racism" is so called dead and archaic, at best? Because of Obama being mixed, the issue of race becomes a factor in the campaign. However, as the writer comments, others have used race as the impetus to debunk stereotypes and myths about their race. Almost a half century after Dr. King gave his prolific "I Have a Dream Speech" in which he hoped for a world where individuals are judged by the "content of their character" and not by the "color of their skin" we still grapple, at great lengths, over the issue of race and is connection to one's ability in various fields. Senator Obama has shown great poise and gained the support of many people. To equate Senator Obama with the likes of Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton and others whose actions proved at times detrimental to the whole race, is simply disrespectful and ignorant, at best. Obama will make mistakes and decisions many will disagree with. However, so did George Bush senior and junior, Bill Clinton and countless other Presidents. Let us remember, that at this historic moment in history, we, as AMERICANS, have an opportunity not a chance for failure, to restore hope and faith in America at home and abroad.
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