Well, you may be tired of hearing about the anniversary of Martin Luther King's death. But, I know that to let this moment in history pass without at least a blurb about it on my blog would be inconsistent with the issues I routinely address here.
I have nothing truly insightful to offer this historic person--many others have said great things about him, and offered their opinions about where America has gone since that sad day in 1968. But I do have one little suggestion... it's regarding that pesky political contest coming up in November.
If you haven’t considered Barack Obama for president, perhaps you should take a second look. The most obvious is that he offers a real change in perspective, and let's be honest here--appearance, too--from the tired old offerings that Democrats and Republicans have offered up for what seems like eons now. But another reason to consider him may be simpler--a vote for Obama (or Clinton, to be sure) would propel the U.S. into the new century both philosophically and for minorities. Since the election of Washington, our nation has steadfastly refused to see representation in the White House for anyone but white men. Imagine what it's like to never see anyone who looks like you representing our country--from a gender minority perspective, it sucks. It seems that women have come so far, yet we cannot get a promotion to the most important office in our homeland. The same goes for those of other skin colors--opportunity has most certainly come along for many, but the highest office remains just out of reach.
I'm tired of hearing that folks aren't ready for a black or female president. Well guess what? I'm not ready to have another white man in office. I know that sounds shallow--you may argue about qualifications. I'll be honest--I'm a die-hard democrat. However, I will always vote for the person who has the most potential. I will cross party lines if that person happens to be on the other side. In this election, I think all three are very qualified in their own ways, and all have potential. Yes, even McCain, who is criticized for his age. There's a name for that--it's called ageism. His age has nothing to do with his ability to connect across generations--whether or not he makes that connection will depend upon his willingness to do so and a genuine interest in younger Americans.
But back to the point--all three candidates offer a great opportunity for the U.S. But only two have the ability to change the face of representation in this country, and the ability to truly reach across those racial and gender divides with authentic empathy.
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