Barack Obama’s Complexion appears to be Irrelevant
Change is popular now. It is the ‘in thing’. The new hip and vintage concept and/or word that’s part of numerous catch phrases. It is also Barack Obama’s campaign platform: Change we can Believe in. Change is and will remain his mantra – but interestingly enough several of those right-wingers are being caught using that remarkable concept/word: Change. I am not mad at them for jumping on the Barack’s much needed rhetorical bandwagon considering it now appears to be a common denominator that’s voiced by people from all walks of life e.g. black, white, rich, poor, educated, uneducated, etc.
Sam Cooke said, “A change is gonna come.” Barack Obama says, “We don’t want to just change presidents. We want to change politics!” Cooke was right – but America’s “first black president”, Bill Clinton (this description is so culturally insulting to black Americans), said that Obama’s lofty idea is a fairy tale. It is interesting that Bill Clinton dismissed Obama’s idealism when many of us were moved by William Jefferson’s humble and hope-filled demeanor, and exuberating charisma back in 1992.
Why is the first black president characterization insulting? Because, we actually gave Bill this title as a result of his adulterous affair and after he lied on national television. I guess deceiving and cheating on your wife classifies him as a black man. So ridiculous and self humiliating.
Obama with his idealistic reasoning believes that America is ready for a change, and the people of Iowa and New Hampshire claim via caucuses’ and primary votes that they are ready for Barack to lead us in the direction that always comes whether we want it to or not. Despite the lost to Hilary in New Hampshire - the state that boasts, “You are going to Love it Here” - Barack Obama has solidified his position in American history. He is one of few black politicians who have successfully crossed the line white America has so successfully cemented in American life: That unnoticeable line that informs non-whites of ‘their place’.
Change occurs with or without our assistance. Change is believed to be ordained by the Great Master of Destiny. We should know this by now. Particularly those of us who claim the world changed for the better when God sacrificed His only son: Crucified so we may live. But, what I am surprised by is the amount of unwavering faith and astounding belief white people from IA and NH are willing to invest in a black man. I literally cannot believe that they have significant confidence in this skinny, preacher-like, former chain smoker, energetic, intelligent, and sincere black man so dearly. Is Obama black or what? His light skin is definitely a plus for them! Could I be dreaming or is this a new day in American politics? He has galvanized and inspired the young adult population. Have we (the black masses) finally convinced white folk that we are just as, and in countless cases, more competent than they are? More of us do have letters behind our names and manage profitable corporations. Or, is America really (this time around) seriously wanting someone in the White House who will mount an effective campaign for changing the outcome in Iraq, revamping the healthcare system, cleaning up America’s reputation at home and worldwide, providing a solution for the illegal immigration crisis; and equally as important, finally focus on assisting the poor?
Time will tell.
However, before time starts to tell I would like to explore with your assistance what it would be like for a black man to be the next president of the United States. Since I am somewhat limited in coming up with realities of a black president I would like to solicit your priceless and always appreciated feedback.
Please share with me what you think America would be like over the next four years if Barack Obama wins the 2008 presidency. What will be accomplished if he is voted in? How do you think the red state constituency will respond to this potential moment in history? Who will be responsible for securing the office of president for him? Will black folk finally begin to participate fully in the political/voting process? Will this give indication that America has addressed and overcome its number one problem: Race Relations?
What say you?
Take an additional 5 minutes to listen to or read Barack’s Yes we Can speech {link below}. It was delivered after his second place showing in New Hampshire. I was inspired and I am convinced that Barack is the only true candidate of Change! Unfortunately, I am also convinced that America’s bed is made with hypocrisy and arrogance. There is no coming back from what our government has done and not done unless Barack’s plea to us works:
“I am asking you to believe. Not in just my ability to bring about change in Washington… I am asking you to believe in yours.”
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post_group/ObamaHQFeature/CGTN
Written by Muata. Inspired by all those white folk in Iowa and New Hampshire who’s responsible for the latest “Obama excitement”. We are waiting to see if that large percentage of registered black democrats in South Carolina (50%) will add to this contagious fever!
Change is popular now. It is the ‘in thing’. The new hip and vintage concept and/or word that’s part of numerous catch phrases. It is also Barack Obama’s campaign platform: Change we can Believe in. Change is and will remain his mantra – but interestingly enough several of those right-wingers are being caught using that remarkable concept/word: Change. I am not mad at them for jumping on the Barack’s much needed rhetorical bandwagon considering it now appears to be a common denominator that’s voiced by people from all walks of life e.g. black, white, rich, poor, educated, uneducated, etc.
Sam Cooke said, “A change is gonna come.” Barack Obama says, “We don’t want to just change presidents. We want to change politics!” Cooke was right – but America’s “first black president”, Bill Clinton (this description is so culturally insulting to black Americans), said that Obama’s lofty idea is a fairy tale. It is interesting that Bill Clinton dismissed Obama’s idealism when many of us were moved by William Jefferson’s humble and hope-filled demeanor, and exuberating charisma back in 1992.
Why is the first black president characterization insulting? Because, we actually gave Bill this title as a result of his adulterous affair and after he lied on national television. I guess deceiving and cheating on your wife classifies him as a black man. So ridiculous and self humiliating.
Obama with his idealistic reasoning believes that America is ready for a change, and the people of Iowa and New Hampshire claim via caucuses’ and primary votes that they are ready for Barack to lead us in the direction that always comes whether we want it to or not. Despite the lost to Hilary in New Hampshire - the state that boasts, “You are going to Love it Here” - Barack Obama has solidified his position in American history. He is one of few black politicians who have successfully crossed the line white America has so successfully cemented in American life: That unnoticeable line that informs non-whites of ‘their place’.
Change occurs with or without our assistance. Change is believed to be ordained by the Great Master of Destiny. We should know this by now. Particularly those of us who claim the world changed for the better when God sacrificed His only son: Crucified so we may live. But, what I am surprised by is the amount of unwavering faith and astounding belief white people from IA and NH are willing to invest in a black man. I literally cannot believe that they have significant confidence in this skinny, preacher-like, former chain smoker, energetic, intelligent, and sincere black man so dearly. Is Obama black or what? His light skin is definitely a plus for them! Could I be dreaming or is this a new day in American politics? He has galvanized and inspired the young adult population. Have we (the black masses) finally convinced white folk that we are just as, and in countless cases, more competent than they are? More of us do have letters behind our names and manage profitable corporations. Or, is America really (this time around) seriously wanting someone in the White House who will mount an effective campaign for changing the outcome in Iraq, revamping the healthcare system, cleaning up America’s reputation at home and worldwide, providing a solution for the illegal immigration crisis; and equally as important, finally focus on assisting the poor?
Time will tell.
However, before time starts to tell I would like to explore with your assistance what it would be like for a black man to be the next president of the United States. Since I am somewhat limited in coming up with realities of a black president I would like to solicit your priceless and always appreciated feedback.
Please share with me what you think America would be like over the next four years if Barack Obama wins the 2008 presidency. What will be accomplished if he is voted in? How do you think the red state constituency will respond to this potential moment in history? Who will be responsible for securing the office of president for him? Will black folk finally begin to participate fully in the political/voting process? Will this give indication that America has addressed and overcome its number one problem: Race Relations?
What say you?
Take an additional 5 minutes to listen to or read Barack’s Yes we Can speech {link below}. It was delivered after his second place showing in New Hampshire. I was inspired and I am convinced that Barack is the only true candidate of Change! Unfortunately, I am also convinced that America’s bed is made with hypocrisy and arrogance. There is no coming back from what our government has done and not done unless Barack’s plea to us works:
“I am asking you to believe. Not in just my ability to bring about change in Washington… I am asking you to believe in yours.”
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post_group/ObamaHQFeature/CGTN
Written by Muata. Inspired by all those white folk in Iowa and New Hampshire who’s responsible for the latest “Obama excitement”. We are waiting to see if that large percentage of registered black democrats in South Carolina (50%) will add to this contagious fever!
17 comments:
Reader Response:
If Hillary wins in 2008 and Bill is 'appointed' to fill her Senate seat and either live to retire 'they' (together or alone) would get two US Presidential retirement checks, two US Senate retirement checks, and a retirement check from the State of Arkansas .
About the only thing they MIGHT NOT get is a Social Security check....but I wouldn't bet on it....
I understand ole Bill has earned $40,000,000 in the past six years. What a guy!
AND THE REST OF THE STORY...
Hilarious Rotten Clinton, as a New York State Senator, now comes under the 'Congressional Retirement and Staffing Plan,' which means that even if she never gets reelected, she STILL receives her Congressional salary until she dies.
(Wouldn't it be nice if all Americans were pension eligible after only 4 years?)
If Bill outlives her, he then inherits HER salary until HE dies. He is already getting his Presidential salary until he dies.
If Hillary outlives Bill, she also gets HIS salary until she dies.
Guess who pays for that?
It's common knowledge that in order for her to establish NY residency, they purchased a million dollar-plus house in upscale Chappaqua, N Y.
Makes sense!
They are entitled to Secret Service protection for life .
Still makes sense.
Here is where it becomes interesting. Their mortgage payments hover at around $10,000 per month. BUT, an extra residence 'had' to be built within the acreage to house the Secret Service agents.
The Clintons charge the Federal government $10,000 monthly rent for the use of that extra residence, which is about equal to their mortgage payment.
This means that WE, THE TAXPAYERS, are paying the Clinton's salary, mortgage, transportation, safety and security, as well as the salaries for their 12 man staff -- and, this is all perfectly legal!
As she runs for President, will YOU vote for her?
-DB
Muata responds to DB:
it is funny how many us black folk are so 'against' hilary and bill now. we were all up in their... when bill was running for president. we even coined him as the "black president" - but now since they are capitializing off america's system we are all up in arms. just like so many of us they are 'getting that loot'! who does not work the system to get paid? also, we are all on barack's bandwagon, and now dissing the clintons! and, why? because we claim we want a black man in office. but, so many of us will not even vote. hypocrites!
-Muata
Reader Response and Muata Responds:
oh you have change of mind now?
-RM
RM-
He has grown on me - but I am not convinced he is ready or he really understands the magnitude of the responsibility he will have to please EVERYONE. Ready to suspend his idealism, and really focus on the battle he will have with other politicians.
-Muata
Reader Response:
I can't see it.
I just can't see it.
-SH
Muata responds to SH:
The world will be FLOORED if he makes it to that White House! But, like you I am not banking on it! For him to get there he needs so many white votes, and you know WE (blacks) have a major issue with coming out to vote. Unfortunately, I have more faith in white folks voting him in than I do in blacks. Now, that is a sad commentary. We have a chance to help get a brotha in the presidency and we (collectively) will not come together like whites in Iowa and New Hampshire have done to support a black man. We are all polluted with hatred, lack of trust, division, and, etc. Lord we have to do better!!
My statement is not intended to take away from those of us who have been on the front lines with Barack. It just ain't enough of us now and it will not be.
-Muata
Reader Response:
Barack's idealism is appreciated and it is needed in the political environment, but it is not realistic. It does not jive with America's way of life. He will not last. They (sharks) are going to eat his azz alive!!
-JH
Reader Response:
Men like Barack Obama die before their time. They are going to kill him if he becomes prez!
-TK
Reader Question:
What do you think about all these people creating t-shirts and other items to promote Barack Obama. Like t-shirts, hats, buttons, etc.
Look at this site:
www.barackawear.com
-Bridge
Muata responds to Bridge:
another way to capitalize off barack. he is popular. he is fresh. the 'in thing'. and these fashion items are cool. the real question: if barack gets the nomination, will we (black folk) vote in record numbers? unfortunately, i believe we WILL NOT. black people have had every opportunity to change the face of politics in the past - but we fail to deliver. we don't even participate in local government! our attitude and effort toward voting is pathetic, and completely disappointing considering our ancestors were killed so we can even sit up in a damn restaurant. but i hold out with HOPE that we will rectify the problems we have caused via voting.
-Muata
Barack Obama
My step-dad said he believes now is the right time for Obama to be president because if not now then when? Why not now? He said that Obama will be a president for America. And since, he is mixed he can represent both races (black and white). He will rule the country not just for blacks and whites, but also for ALL PEOPLE. He said that he believes America is ready for change and if Obama is elected president that will definitely prove that America is ready for change.
My Mom on the other hand said that she believes Obama will be assassinated as soon as he becomes president if he is elected. She said she believes he should team up with Hillary and become her running mate. She thinks he is not ready because the American people are not ready for a black president and that he should run next time. She also said she does not think white America is ready for a Black president.
I believe this is an exciting time in American politics. I watched the Democratic debates last Saturday and the debates were lively. At the end of the debate, the commentator asked each candidate if there was something that they said that they could take back what would it be. I was disappointed that Hillary and Obama could not admit to one single thing that they said that they would take back if they could.
To me, not admitting one wrong will lead to an avalanche of never admitting any wrongdoing.
Freedom
Muata Responds to Freedom:
I agree with your mother, and countless others believe that Barack will be 'taken-out'. It appears America is ready to some degree, but we need to keep in mind that those in control are not and will not give up their power easily. Barack becoming president will signal to them that they need to do something to hold onto the power they stole from the Native Americans! They ain't going to give it up!!!
I have to agree that it is a exciting time in America now. But, so many (the poor) are still suffering at the hands of a corrupt and un-caring political structure.
-Muata
Reader Response:
The more I read about Barack, the more impressed I am with him as an individual. It's amazing how being able to relate to some one's struggle and perseverance can ignite something in you that almost brings you to tears. I find Mr. Obama enlightening and insightful. His intelligence is outstanding as is his charisma. These are all good characteristics to have when you are running for president.
However, I agree a bit with Magic Johnson in that he lacks some of the experience needed to be the President at the moment. I actually feel his skill set is better served as Secretary of State. He is able to capture people's attention when speaking. He is willing to travel and talk face to face with our allies and enemies. He is a great fit for a position as our lead Diplomat. At times, he seems a bit too idealistic. I like his ideas in theory but I find some of them a bit hard to approach practically. I loved his speech. One of the best speeches of our time.
That being said, if he wins what do I think it will be like? Washington is Washington and nothing truly changes. He can bring some change. However, I expect that his race combined with his lack of experience will magnify his decision making failures. I think he will try his best to reform health care and the tax code. I think his attempts will be successful but not nearly as successful as he has promised. I don't see him bringing our troops any sooner than anyone else. I also think he will be out in 4 years. I think anyone who wins will only last four years. America is like a woman scorned. Her heart is broken and the next president will just be the rebound and will be under heavy scrutiny and out of the door in four.
On the flip side, I think he will always receive threats. I think America will show her true colors and failure to deal with race relation as a nation. I think we will learn a great deal about our country as whole.
If he wins the election I don't think it will be because of the black vote. Though I do think a great deal of people will vote for him because he is black. It would be a fascinating moment in history and to be apart of it would be amazing. I think his win in Iowa shows that he has a chance in the Midwest. I think the Midwest will be where the battle takes place at least in the presidential election. He won't win the south even if he ran against Satan himself. If he wins the primary he has my vote for President for sure. The only candidate on the other side I would consider is Paul. But he is better off running as an independent because he is certainly the most liberal conservative I have ever seen.
It will be interesting to say the least but at the moment I am leaning towards Hilary and Edwards as a tandem and Barack as the Secretary of State that will lead us in securing strong allies all over the world. Most of us in our heart of hearts would choose intelligence and experience over charisma and intelligence any day.
-LS
SH responds to Muata:
I totally agree.
To be honest I really don't know what Barack stands for - if anything at all - like most politicians.
Him being AA won't change that.
The Presidency is a me first job that gets all the respect of the WE's.
Totally crazy and what in the WORLD is going to CHANGE.
I pray gas prices and the price of bread goes down ($2.78 today - WOW).
That's real CHANGE ! ! ! ! ha ha ha
-SH
Muata responds to EJ:
The point is that we DO NOT support Barack even when he is saying the same thing Clinton was saying to get "in touch" with us.
I was never a Barack hater - but I did scruntnize his effectivness to be the president based on research and history. I am someone who did not immediately jump behind and support him simply because he is black. But so many of us black folk IMMEDIATELY supported Clinton because he was "in touch" with the black community. All he had to do was pretend he was and we fell for it. Perhaps he was/is a sympathzier for us - but a certain element within the black community
did give Mr. Clinton his ridiculous title because he behaved in a manner that we classify as black behavior. Haven't you noticed that we hate ourselves so much that we give each other titles that demean our culture? Including myself and others who are not "ghetto".
Black folk need to re-examine the reason why we have had 8 years of Bush: WE DID NOT VOTE IN MASS. That's why!
-Muata
Reader Response:
Yes it really happening for now! Now 'Brother Bill' is attacking Obama, almost like he is running for office. This is going to be a nasty fight down the wire if it remains this close. I hope everyone is registered to
vote! That is the only way we can make a difference.
-HJ
Muata responds to HJ:
I know. I am excited by the entire process. As we get closer and closer to November the fireworks will be banging! I must that I am glad I and others will be a part of the process. Simply, registering to vote and then voting is a part of the process. Monitoring the political news is a part of the process. Viewing the debates is a part of the process. Discussing with friends and family the outcomes is a part of the process. Debating with friends and family is a part of the process. And, expecting a change within the United States indicates that we care. I am excited!
-Muata
Barack Obama speaks at MLK,Jr.'s former church on January 21, 2008 and a response from Muata after reading the speech:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/mlkvideo
Obama has so much hope and confidence in this "change" he speaking of. It is sadly amazing that he is referencing several of the very same things MLK, Jr. had to say over and over again in the 60's. Makes me wonder if the change Barack seeks will truly be real one day. Who is in control of this change that we have not seen/lived?
You? Me? Us?
-Muata
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