The article I chose to blog about is “Race relations in the U.S. appear hopeful” by Hubert G. Locke. The main thread that ties the article together is Barack Obama. The article not only talks of the obvious, the issue people might have with a black president, it also speaks about how Obama continues to surprise people by not being a cookie-cutter politician. This includes his willingness to change his position on things as he gets new information, which some might say is inconsistent or wishy-washy, like how John Kerry, who ran in 2004, was perceived. Generally, people have supported Obama, and in a very large way. In rejecting traditional practices during his candidacy, he has brought hope to many people in the U.S.
Now, it is not becoming as much of an issue of race. And really, it shouldn’t matter that he’s black, or white, or any particular race. What really matters is what kind of person he is. Pundits will say what they want, and draw up all sorts of stereotypes, and for what? I think it’s because they have nothing much bad to say about him, all racism aside. Many believe he is going to be a great leader. People see that he doesn’t fit the type of person that is depicted in negative black stereotypes. And what’s more important, is that he doesn’t fit the (somewhat true) stereotype of many politicians!
The article brings up a national poll that seems to indicate that Obama’s success as the Democratic candidate hasn’t “closed the divide over race”. But it also shows that Americans, black and white, are ready for a black president. The lesson here I think is that while Obama’s success hasn’t immediately changed perceptions of race relations, at least change has begun by his acceptance by so many as the potential next president.
(Word Count: Three Hundred Seven)
Article link: http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/opinion/372116_hubert25.html
31 July, 2008 at 7:28 am
I’m glad someone brought this up! In four out of the 5 classes I’ve taken in the last 2 quarters, a huge focus has been on race and prejudice, etc. All along, there have been people saying that “oh we’re so naïve, there’s really bad racism everywhere!” I disagree. Don’t get me wrong though, I do understand that there are certain places and people where racism is very strong. However, I feel that as a country, we have become very open. Just look at who we have been focusing on this year. a woman and an African-American. Could a country with such bad discriminatory habits really consider putting these people into office?!
(112 words)
31 July, 2008 at 7:25 pm
I think that because Obama changes his views on things as he learns new information he didn’t have prior is actually a blessing. What a humanistic quality to have, especially one that doesn’t seem to fit in politics in the US; a man who doesn’t think he knows it all, and is willing to let the citizens see that he is capable of growth and gaining new knowledge as he lives day by day just as the rest of us do (or should). That is a breath of fresh air to see, someone who is real, and allows others to see this side of him. Thank goodness a different kind of politician has emerged from the darkness. I think that if our country is going to get any better, he is one who will make it happen. (word count 137)
31 July, 2008 at 10:59 pm
@melmelp99:
You’re absolutely right. As humans, we are able to adapt. When we learn new information, it is our right, nay, duty to change and adapt. If we stay and do the same exact thing, even when learning new things, we are no different than animals. (45)