So now that Obama has selected his running mate...whats next? I dont remember hearing a lot of dialogue, in general, about what happens to the racial dynamic of this country after this Presidential race. It almost seems like people are afraid to explore the dynamic of how the African American community will respond to what happens if Obama wins and especially, if he loses. Here are my theories:
Scenario #1: Obama wins. A sense of pride and expectation arises in the black community. Maybe even a sense of urgency to just do better. A new standard set. A renewed emphasis on education and community development occurs. We see our achievements not only increase but become more recognized by society at large...without it needing to be "Black History Month."
Scenario #2: Obama wins. He is expected to single-handedly carry the banner for African American hope. He is set up to fail and to do so publicly. African Americans react with disdain and become crabs helping keep him from succeeding in Office. Unfair characterizations of being an "Uncle Tom" or of having "sold out" riddle his campaign. A historical bookmark is lost in the annals of time as another ineffectual President takes his place among the anonymous.
Scenario #3: Obama loses. But hope for the future among African Americans remains. No longer feeling ignored, communities begin to respond with positive reinforcement of the ideals spread by Obama and other black leaders. Obama's campaign is viewed as a stepping stone to bigger and better and greater expectations.
Scenario #4: Obama loses. The African American community responds with anger and/or a sense of hopelessness. We fall back on the excuses provided by institutional racism and take up the mantle of conspiracy theorists and naysayers. Regression inspired by perceived repression. Depression masked by outward aggression. Racial tensions rise and the black community falls.
I honestly think we'll see some semblance of one or more of these scenarios. I really hope its #1 or #3. The opportunity that Obama's campaign brings is SO MUCH BIGGER than a "Black President" and that almost seems lost in the mix. Such excitement at the possibility of a Black President...are we forgetting to ask "Whats Next?" I guess I'm just curious as to what our future holds, political and especially non-political.
4 comments:
Whether he wins or loses I think elements of each reaction will be present. 1/2 will be on display if he wins and 3/4 if he loses. It will all come down to which media outlet you chose to view.
Thats true. It does also depend on your perception of what is happening versus what really IS happening. Either way you'll probably end up with a duality...i'm just hoping the positive change massively outweighs any negative.
I believe option 4 will most likely happen. The Democratic party is their own worst enemy and this Clinton-Barack bullshit will kill them. One thing about Republicans is they may not agree amongst themselves but they will go with the party and not waiver. Hearing Hillary supporters threaten to vote for McCain is disgusting.
I believe the choice for many Americans is Option 1 or 4. Barack/Biden is such a promisingly powerful combo that if they were to lose, the poor and middle class would be (justifiably) outraged. They would react to being cheated.
Otherwise, the beauty of Barack is that there are no limitations to his aspirations, he truly desires to have his face on currency someday, as such, vanity has fueled preparation and he is well-equipped to prevent option #2 once he is victorious.
BTW, hello gentlemen.
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