I found this an interesting read and I wanted to get others opinions.
As we go deeper into the 2008 election season, I continue to be struck by the politics of symbolism that surround the race for the Democratic Party nomination. Perhaps if I were not as fearful as I am about both the situation in Iraq and the potential for a Bush-initiated war against Iran, I could sit back and be amused. But amused I am not.
Much too much has gone into the symbolism of the potential for a woman or an African American receiving the nomination and ultimately being elected President of the USA. Clearly, the election of a woman or African American would be historic, yet this symbolism seems to have blinded or muted, depending on one's point of view, too many people to real issues of substance.
The other day, I ran into an African American man I had not seen in some years. We started talking about the Presidential race and he indicated that he was an Obama supporter. I indicated that I remain undecided but that I was concerned that Obama was the equivalent of an inspirational speaker in this race, yet on the issues he seemed too concerned about not making waves. The eyes of this man looked quickly to the floor and he acknowledged that what I had to say was correct, but it was also clear that the discussion was over. He had made up his mind and there was nothing more to be said.
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