I Have A Dream: When Racism Is No Longer A Part of Politics

This Martin Luther King Jr. day my thoughts stray to the day, almost one year ago, when America’s first African-American president was sworn in. I was lucky to find myself in the country on such a momentous occasion. I saw a proud nation open its arms to change, with a hopeful gaze on what could be yet another inspiring future.

For the record, I was and remain to this date, supportive of Obama’s election. I think he is genuine and intelligent – a rare combination in the political circle for sure. His performance may or may not match his promises, but there is no denying the fact that he is trying. And as of now, that is enough. Most of my peers have faith in him, and I, as a foreigner in America, think their support and pride are justified.

But I couldn’t help but wonder — would America have been as proud of its decision, had Obama been Caucasian? Perhaps. Perhaps not. There is obviously no way to get a sure answer. This is not to imply that a Caucasian president cannot inspire pride, but given the fact that America has come a long way since racial division, it is definitely more of a matter of pride that an African American can now reach such a station in this country.

I do think, however, that Obama’s race was given undue importance during the entire exercise. Sure, it wasn’t spelt out as a concern or consideration during the elections, but let’s face it – it was a factor at the back of every supporter’s mind. One of my classmates was of the opinion that, and I quote, “it is high time America got a black president.” Do I agree with that? No. Do I disagree with that? No.

My point is — his race is immaterial. Isn’t that what America’s point was supposed to be? Highlighting a person’s ethnicity while praising them is like saying, “This person is <insert race of choice>, but look what he/she did!” It smacks of a contemptuous superiority, of the feeling that it is surprising that a person of that race was able to achieve the feat in question. Instead of being a legitimate form of praise, it ends up being a most discriminatory statement.

This is not meant to undermine Obama’s election in any way, or suggest that he was elected only because of the color of his skin. But this may serve as an alternative viewpoint on America’s first black president and his candidature.

Let’s forget that he’s black, let’s forget that this nation had never seen a president of color before him, and let’s not use him to absolve this country of its unpleasant past. Let’s, instead, focus on his work, his beliefs, his character and his conduct. Those will tell us much more than his race ever will. Judging him on the same scale as we did Bush, or Clinton, is the only thing that will do justice to a leader like him. That is what real equality is about.

Martin Luther King Jr. once said: I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

On Martin Luther King Jr. day 2010, the good news is that we’re already on our way to making that happen. What we need is a second look at our well-intentioned behavior, a little more clarity of thought and a little more faith.

Image: Sabeth18